Centrifuge Model Tests and Numerical Simulations of the Landslide Evolution Process

Abstract

Centrifuge model tests and numerical simulations were performed to study the landslide evolution process and failure mechanism. A TLJ-500 geotechnical centrifuge was used for the experiments and landslide deformation and stress was monitored using high-precision differential displacement sensors and earth pressure micro-sensors. Discrete element numerical simulations were performed using PFC2D based on the experimental results. The findings show that the landslide evolution process can be divided into three stages: 1) compaction and consolidation; 2) uniform deformation; and 3) accelerated deformation and failure. The numerical simulation results verify the distinct stage characteristics of the landslide evolution process. According to the migration of microscopic soil mass particles within the landslide, stage 3) can be further divided into a deformation development stage and instability and failure stage. The simulation displacement monitoring curves and displacement map show distinct deformation characteristics and displacement indicators from stages 2) to 3) and from the deformation development stage to the instability and failure stage. The experimental and numerical results reveal the landslide failure mechanism: the upper part of the landslide thrusts and slides; the middle part squeezes; the lower part collapses; and shear plane penetration leads to landslide failure.