Rock slope reliability analysis using Barton-Bandis failure criterion with modified pseudo-dynamic approach

Abstract

A modified pseudo-dynamic approach was used for a reliability-based stability analysis of plane failure rock slopes. The Barton-Bandis nonlinear failure criterion and the limit equilibrium principle were adopted to account for the nonlinear characteristics of rock joint shear strength and safety factor of slope, respectively. The Monte Carlo simulation method was used to analyze the rock slopes. Comparisons of the present method to a numerical simulation and to a pseudo-static case, were implemented. The influence of different parameters and tension cracks on slope stability was analyzed. Results showed that the stability of the rock slope decreases with increasing rock unit weight, horizontal seismic coefficients and vertical seismic coefficients, and increases with increasing residual friction angle, joint roughness coefficient and joint compressive strength. The location of the tension crack has significant influence on the stability of rock slopes, while the influence of inclination of the tension crack is negligible.