Slope-stability assessments using finite-element limit-analysis methods

This paper utilizes finite-element limit-analysis methods to investigate the stability of slopes of various properties and in nature. Specifically, a slope with a soft (weak material) band, a postquake slope, and rock slopes were investigated. The conventional Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion and the Hoek-Brown failure criterion are utilized for soil and rock slopes, respectively. The Hoek-Brown failure criterion can be applied directly in the finite-element limit-analysis methods without the need for conversion to the equivalent Mohr-Coulomb parameters. The applicability of the numerical limit-analysis methods in both soil and rock slopes is clearly demonstrated. It is also significant to note that the results presented in this paper have two distinct solutions: the upper- and lower-bound solutions. In addition, the failure mechanisms of the slopes are also shown. Prior assumptions of the failure mechanisms are not required for these finite-element limit-analysis methods, therefore providing a more realistic understanding of slope failures.