Assessing the Stability of a Geologically Complex Slope Where Strong Dykes Locally Act as Reinforcement

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of aspects of the design of large slope cuttings in complex geological conditions in South Korea. During the original cutting of the slopes to geometries prescribed by Korean standards for rock slopes, several translational slides occurred on daylighting bedding planes. From observation it was evident that away from the areas of distress, some parts of the slopes appeared to be relatively stable, apparently because of the strengthening influence of relatively strong and massive igneous dykes and sills through the sedimentary rock. This paper describes how the geological conditions were assessed and stability analysed, section-by-section, along the road. This was achieved using a form of the method of slices to account for those sections of potential failure surfaces where sliding could occur along bedding and others where failure would necessitate shear through the intrusive igneous rock. Results were checked using UDEC models of critical sections. Following these analyses, recommendations were made for localized additional preventive measures including anchors and drainage.