Rock Slope Stability Analysis Based on Comprehensive Failure Mechanism and Engineering Application

Abstract

The sliding modes of rock slopes are closely related to the strength yield criterion of the rock mass adopted in numerical analysis. In order to make theoretical calculation results meet engineering practice, particularly for complex rock slopes with multiple empty surfaces, multiple control sliding surfaces and potential sliding modes, numerical analysis method used for stability evaluation should take comprehensive failure of the rock mass into consideration. This paper proposes a stability evaluation method based on a comprehensive failure mechanism of the rock mass based on discrete element theory and a modified M-C strength yield criterion to overcome the shortcomings of traditional strength yield criteria, which are mainly derived from shear strength failure. However, the method is used to analyze deformation and failure modes of a typical rock slope in Shuang Jiang Kou Hydropower Station. The results of the findings demonstrated that the method mentioned above can describe different failure modes of rock blocks and joints, deformation trend and stable state of the slope. The experimental results are approved by geological exploring. To adapt to the yield modes of the rock block and joint, a space support system with variable angles, lengths, and design forces is chosen for this typical rock slope. This support system has been proven to be practical and can improve the stability coefficient of the slope. The results presented in this study are useful in engineering practice.