Stability of Slopes under Dynamic Loading using FEM Software

Abstract

Abstract: In this study, the dynamic stability of soil slopes was analysed using the finite element method (FEM). The analysis was performed using the Plaxis 2D software, which is a popular FEM software package. The study aimed to investigate the behaviour of soil slopes under dynamic loading conditions and to evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of the FEM approach for predicting slope stability. A 2D slope model was created using Plaxis 2D, and dynamic analyses were performed under different loading conditions. A Shake Table was used for simulating the loading conditions at different frequencies and amplitude. The results of the analysis showed that the slope stability was highly dependent on the dynamic loading conditions and the soil properties. Under earthquake like ground motions which were simulated with the help of shake table under controlled environment, the slope experienced significant deformations and displacements. The deformations were calculated in the form of crest settlement and toe settlement. The study also evaluated the accuracy of the FEM approach by comparing the simulation results with the experimental data. The comparison showed that the FEM approach provided a good prediction of the slope behaviour under dynamic loading conditions and could be used as a reliable tool for analysing slope stability. Overall, the study demonstrated the effectiveness of the FEM approach for analysing the dynamic stability of soil slopes and highlighted the importance of considering dynamic loading conditions in slope stability analysis. The study also provided insights into the behaviour of soil slopes under different loading conditions and could be useful for designing safer and more stable slopes in practice.