Effects of seepage on a three-layered slope and its stability analysis under rainfall conditions

Abstract

The seepage and stability of unsaturated soil slopes under torrential rain conditions are key issues in geotechnical and hydraulic engineering. In this work, based on the generalized limit equilibrium method, the stability of nonhomogeneous slopes with three layers was investigated. The effects of rainfall on the volume water content, pore water pressure and the stability of the slope were evaluated, and rainfall cycles and rainfall intensities were considered. The results show that the stability of the slope decreased with increasing rainfall intensity until it was destroyed. The safety factor of the slope is lowest in a period of time after the rain stops. This condition means that the slope is more prone to damage. The seepage field and stress field of the slope were significantly changed with increasing rainfall, and finally, the slope became unstable.