Slope Stability Analysis Using Radial Slices: A Mathematical Model

Abstract

In this paper, a mathematical model has been formulated for calculating the factor of safety of a slope. Corresponding computer code has also been developed. Limit equilibrium method (moment equilibrium) has been adopted for calculating the net resulting driving and resisting forces. The probable slip circle region has been divided into radial slices for the simulation process. In this approach, the inter-slice shear forces are zero. Thus, the calculation process becomes simpler as compared to that with vertical slices. The slope stability analyses were done. Validation of the present program was done with existing limit equilibrium based methods. Various models were prepared and analysed with varying geometry and soil strength parameters. These models were also analysed with other limit equilibrium methods like Bishop, Janbu and Spencer method. The results were found to be in agreement with the results of other limit equilibrium methods for the same dump soil properties and slope parameters.