An integrated approach for jointed rock slope stability analysis using stochastic discrete fractures: A case study in mountains area

Abstract

Stochastic discrete fractures are ubiquitous in practicing engineering and contribute much to the stability for geological mediums. In contrast to the traditional treatments based on continuum mechanics, we propose an integrated approach using discrete fractures based on an improved hybrid finite element method (FEM). A typical jointed rock slop is selected as a case study and then was simulated in the light of geological conditions for the study site. The basic equations of fracture domains are derived to generate stochastic discrete fractures which render a fundamental to the model. To implement this procedure through computer program, discrete fractures generating algorithm was developed. In the aspect of discretization, we presented a meshing scheme and proposed an algorithm to create fracture elements. To evaluate rock slope stability in a quantitative way, safety factor is calculated by strength reduction method. Numerical simulations were carried out showing the mechanical behaviors of jointed rock slope under different boundary conditions.