Computation of slope stability

Abstract

1. Slope stability analyses based on methods which do not examine the stress—strain state of the fill as a whole, including use of both the strength and deformability of the soils, do not guarantee actual slope stability in all cases. 2. The shape of the collapse surface depends on the mechanical properties of the soils and also on the fill height. The numerical method of analysis showed, in all the cases examined, the flattest collapse-surface outline. 3. The stability factor of safety depends on the stress-strain state of the structure as a whole and, therefore, in computing its values, of great importance are the fill height, crest width, dilatancy, variation of deformational characteristics and soil strength with the ratio between the principal stresses, and the stage-by-stage pattern of the loading. 4. The soil strength and deformability data obtained in a stabilometer are found to be insufficient for determining the stability factor of safety with a satisfactory accuracy.