Investigation of influence of baffles on landslide debris mobility by 3D material point method

Abstract

In mountainous terrain, landslide debris is a common occurrence around the world that can potentially result in catastrophic consequences to downstream residents and facilities. Arrays of baffles are increasingly used as energy dissipaters for the protection from debris flow due to their low cost and environmental impact. However, the development of a numerical tool for the rational design of such structures is still a challenge. In this work, a material point method computational framework is presented, using two contact models to describe the landslide debris movement and interaction with structures, respectively. Flume model experiments are adopted as calibration and good agreements are exhibited in flow kinematics between computed results and physical model tests. Simulations on an idealized scenario of landslide debris flow show how the baffle geometry/arrangement has key effects on the debris movement and deposition. The impact force in soil-structure interaction has also been studied, showing the ability of this method on evaluation force characteristics acted on baffle structures.