Slope Stability Calculations Research Articles

Neural network-assisted generic predictive models of safety factor and yield acceleration for seismic slope stability and displacement assessments

As two well-recognized approaches for seismic slope stability assessment, the pseudo-static analysis estimates the factor of safety (FS) and the Newmark-type analysis estimates permanent downslope-displacement based on input yield acceleration (ky). However, FS and ky are usually obtained from non-trivial slope stability calculations, which can become computationally demanding in probabilistic analyses or regional landslide mapping. This study presents neural network-assisted predictive models for (1) seismic or static FS and the category of failure mode; and (2) ky and the thickness of failure mass. Extensive stability analyses of more than 741,000 and 123,000 slope configurations are conducted to compile datasets of FS and ky, respectively. Performance evaluations indicate that the models produce physically reasonable prediction trends and have good generalization capability with correlation coefficient higher than 0.94 in blind tests. Compared to the existing infinite slope model and predictive tools, the new models achieve improved applicability and functionality, accounting for pore-water pressure, depth to hard stratum, and various failure modes. Both the spreadsheet and MATLAB files established in this study are provided to facilitate generic applications. Therefore, this work not only demonstrates the neural network capability, but also provides useful tools for practitioners, contributing to both the pseudo-static and Newmark-type approaches.

Geodynamic hazard assessment for the archaeological park-museum by the town of Nikopol

This study was conducted to establish the engineering geological and hydrogeological conditions of the site and to assess the geodynamic hazard in relation to the design and construction of the archaeological park-museum and feeder road in the town of Nikopol (Bulgaria). The studied terrain occupies a river terrace and the foot of a delluvial slope with an elevation of 23-68 m. The tasks of the study are to identify: the geological structure of the slope, the area and depth range of the landslides, the location of the slip surface, the physical and mechanical properties of the engineering geological strata, the hydrogeological conditions, the current stability of landslides, the change of slope stability under the action of various factors. The ground investigation includes analysis of archival and published information on the area; geodetic survey of the landslide; engineering geological mapping; exploratory boreholes; geophysical surveys using the VES method; testing of soil and water samples; compilation of longitudinal engineering geological profiles and slope stability analysis using the computational models. To the south of the study site the slope is affected by an ancient landslide with a volume of about 30 million m3 developed on the right valley slope of the Danube River in the section between the plateau and the river terrace. Consistent landslides occur in its lower part. Slope stability calculations show that the landslides are triggered by a rise in the groundwater level, an earthquake and undermining of the slope base. Rock-falls has developed on the steep rock slopes, composed of moderately to highly weathered and fractured cherty and glauconitic limestones. The size of the rockfall blocks is in the range 0.3-0.8 m3 and their transport distance reaches from 10 m to 50 m from the base of the slope. Stabilization measures and facilities are proposed to strengthen the landslides and rockfalls in the considered section of the slope. For the landslides it is proposed to implement a counterfort embankment on which to build the feeder road, drainage ribs and drainage ditches. For protection of the buildings from collapsing rock debris, an anchored high-strength net is recommended. The design takes into account the trajectory of the falling blocks and their kinetic energy. For monitoring the condition of the landslides and rockfalls, as well as for evaluating the effectiveness of the implemented strengthening, drainage and coastal protection structures, a control and measurement system for regime observation was built.

The critical role of c and φ in ensuring stability: A study on rockfill dams

Abstract Slope stability analysis is an important part of rockfill dam design, and the uncertainty of rock and soil physical and mechanical parameters has a significant impact on slope stability. In this article, based on physical and mechanical parameters c and φ, simplified Bishop’s method and mean clustering method are adopted to study the influence of parameter cohesion c and internal friction Angle φ on slope safety factor k of composite geomembrane rockfill dam, and the key and non-critical areas of the dam are preliminarily differentiated according to the different influences of the changes in different sections of the dam body on slope safety factor c and φ. The research results show that whether c and φ change ±5 and ±10% simultaneously with single parameter or double parameter, it shows that cohesion force c has little influence on slope stability, while internal friction Angle φ is the most sensitive factor in slope stability calculation, and its numerical accuracy has a great influence on the calculation result of safety factor. In addition, the influence of c and φ in key areas on the stability of the dam body is more significant. Therefore, in the construction of a composite geofilm rockfill dam, a relatively accurate φ value is required when selecting parameters, especially in key areas. This study not only has a certain guiding significance for the property requirements of the selected soil, engineering safety, and engineering optimization design, but also puts forward some new methods and ideas for optimizing the design scheme and improving the safety of the dam.

Use of optimization methods in the calculation of slope stability

This article focuses on studying and identifying factors that contribute to ground movement and determining appropriate methods for verifying slope stability. Depending on the type of soil, the geometry of the slope and the type of work to be carried out, it is appropriate to choose a suitable technical solution, adapted both to the nature of the soil in place and to its environment. The major techniques that can be used to increase the mechanical properties of soils are the modification of the internal structure of the existing soil and the reinforcement of the soil by the addition of materials and inclusions. These techniques make it possiblte to improve the compactness and bearing capacity of the soil in place. The case presented in this research was studied using a two-dimensional finite element model, to study the effect of various mechanical characteristics of the soil, including cohesion (C), friction angle (φ), the reference module (Eref) and the backfill volume. We examined the influence of the coupling on the safety factor and the location of the sliding surface to have an optimal slope design. To do this, we formulated the problem into an optimization framework using MINITAB 19 software. This framework will use a design of experiments (DOE) approach to identify the optimal combination of factors ensuring slope safety. The results obtained will be analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of the DOE method in determining the most favorable combination of parameters. We expect the mechanical properties of the slope to have the most significant influence on the factor of safety and the location of the sliding surface.

The Investigation of Stability on Slopes Utilizing Reinforcement Gabion Walls and Concrete Piles for Mitigating Landslide Disasters

Introduction Landslides frequently occur along roads crossing mountainous terrain during the rainy season, posing a significant risk of severe disruption to land transportation routes. Efficient and accurate resolutions are essential in managing landslides to facilitate immediate transportation recovery, such as gabion walls and pile installation. Aim This article aimed to evaluate the effect of installing gabions and piles for safety measures on the stability of slope landslides. The analysis of slope stability was performed utilizing the Plaxis 2D software. For reinforced slopes, the Safety Factor (SF) value utilized as a benchmark for evaluating slope stability was SF ≥ 1.5. Methods An assessment of the stability of the slope was conducted under three conditions: its original state, after reinforcement with gabions, and after the integration of gabions with mini piles. The dimensions of the gabion setting, as determined by the L-W-H notation (length-width- height), were 2 m x 1m x 0.5 m and 1 m x 2 m x 0.5 m. The pile was designed to be 2.5 m long at the gabion's end. The analysis was conducted at 45°, 60°, 70°, and 90° slopes. Results Based on the results of slope stability calculations, an SF = 1.11 was determined under no reinforcement conditions. By applying reinforced gabion walls measuring 2 m in width combined with mini piles at a 45° slope, the best SF was achieved, which was 2.58. Conclusion Given the comparable topographical circumstances, it is expected that the outcomes of this analysis on slope stability will be applicable in mitigating the occurrence of landslides.

Analysis of slope stochastic fields using a novel deep learning model with attention mechanism

This paper proposes a novel deep learning model incorporating attention mechanisms for the analysis of slope stochastic fields. Initially, a deep learning model is designed to digitally image the stochastic field features of soil strength variability. This is achieved by discretizing the slope soil stochastic field using the Karhunen-Loeve expansion method and transforming the discrete results into digital images. These images are then used to establish a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) surrogate model that maps the implicit relationship between stochastic field images and slope functional function values, thus calculating the probability of slope failure. The precision of the CNN surrogate model is enhanced through Bayesian optimization and five-fold cross-validation. Moreover, to overcome the limitations of existing data-driven landslide stability prediction models, this study also introduces a Spatial-Temporal Attention (STA) mechanism. By combining the CNN with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, the model can accurately approximate the actual results of slope stability calculations in scenarios of high-dimensional representation imaging of stochastic fields and low-probability slope instability. Consequently, this significantly improves the computational efficiency of slope reliability analysis considering stochastic field simulations.

Application graph theory to evaluate the stability of landslide slopes

Evaluation of the stability of slopes is a complex and important engineering task, the solution of which requires the analysis of a significant number of factors. Many different methods of slope stability calculation have been developed to solve this type of problem. However, two groups of methods - limit equilibrium methods and the finite element method (FEM) - have become the most widely used. However, these methods have certain disadvantages. Limit equilibrium methods are limited by the assumptions used during the calculation, including the hypothesis of a solid compartment, which does not allow analyzing the stress-strain state. The FEM of the elements does not make it possible to unambiguously localize the sliding surface of the slope, and the determination of the stability coefficient using the method of reducing the strength of the soil requires a large number of complex iterative calculations. The methods and approaches of graph theory can be used precisely to combat the shortcomings of FEM. The paper examines the basics of graph theory. The main methods of specifying graphs, as well as certain types of graphs with an indication of their key features, are presented. The concept of isomorphism of graphs and some features of their graphical representation are revealed. The article presents the basic idea of using graph theory to calculate the stability of slopes. The main questions that must be solved when applying graph theory to the given type of problem are outlined. Two methods of converting a mesh of finite elements into a graph are considered in detail. The advantages and disadvantages of the proposed methods are analyzed. The transformation of the calculation scheme of an imaginary slope with a given geometry, which was simulated in the LIRA-SAPR software complex, into graphs using the above methods is demonstrated. An overview of the approaches that can be used to create a graph weight function is given.

KEMIRINGAN LERENG YANG TEPAT UNTUK MENCEGAH KELONGSORAN DI DESA BARENG KECAMATAN SAWAHAN KABUPATEN NGANJUK

<p><em>Sawahan District is one of 25 sub-districts in Nganjuk Regency, East Java, Indonesia. Sawahan District has quite good agricultural and tourism potential. Recently, landslides have hit several areas in Nganjuk Regency, one of which is Sawahan District. The area has the potential for landslides because it is dominated by hilly areas with steep slopes and high rainfall intensity. The impact of this disaster included road access that was cut off between the village and the sub-district and the main road leading to the Sedudo Waterfall tour. This study aims to identify soil properties, soil consistency, shear angle, and slope safety factor. The method used is the Atterberg limit test, sieve analysis, soil shear strength, and slope stability calculations using the Bishop method. The test results show that the soil is classified as CL with low plasticity and shear angle, in wet soil it produces a shear angle value of 19.74° and an Fs value of 0.20 while in dry conditions it produces a shear angle value of 24.86° and an Fs value of 0.28. Based on the analysis it is suggested that the slope is 50° to achieve Fs 1.09. This research can be used as a basic reference for planning before construction is carried out and provides slope slope design recommendations for slope planning that is safe to prevent landslides.</em></p>

Probabilistic slope stability analysis: A novel distribution for soils exhibiting highly variable spatial properties

Slope stability calculation depends on the soil properties (cohesion and the friction angle) of the soil. Heterogeneous terrains are frequently observed in civil and mining projects where the properties are highly spatially variable. Based on a real data from case studies, this paper presents a probabilistic analysis of the slope stability of highly heterogeneous terrains with a very high coefficient of variation (COV) of the cohesion distribution. The existing deterministic and probabilistic approaches for calculating slope stability lack the capability to effectively consider the significant heterogeneity present in the terrain The objective of the paper is to develop a new bounded interval distribution having a COV that is as high (>150%) as the COV of the cohesion distribution The results obtained with this new distribution are compared to 4 other semi-infinite distributions. To consider the correlation between cohesion and the friction angle, a specific formulation was developed to generate friction angles varying between fixed minimum and maximum limits and having the desired correlation coefficient, mean, and standard deviation. The new cohesion and friction angle distributions were incorporated and tested in a probabilistic numerical model. The new distribution can presently be applied to geotechnical studies for terrains and heterogenous materials with properties exhibiting high spatial variability.

Back analysis of shear strength parameters of slope based on BP neural network and genetic algorithm

AbstractEfficient and accurate acquisition of slope shear strength parameters is the key to slope stability analysis and landslide prevention engineering design. This paper establishes a back analysis method based on uniform design, artificial neural network, and genetic algorithm. It can obtain the shear strength parameters of slopes based on information such as the radius and center coordinates of the slip surface obtained from on‐site investigations. This method has been applied to engineering practice. The research results indicate that the stability of the waste dump slope is most sensitive to the response of the internal friction angle of the loose body, followed by cohesion, and least sensitive to the response of the soil volume weight. This method can effectively reduce the number of network training samples and efficiently and quickly determine the initial weights of the BP (abbreviation for back‐propagation) neural network. This method can efficiently and quickly conduct back analysis to obtain the shear strength parameters of slopes. Using the obtained shear strength parameters for slope stability calculation, the most dangerous slip surface abscissa error, ordinate error, and slip surface radius error are only 3.59%, 0.95%, and 1.83%. It is recommended to promote the back analysis method of shear strength parameters in engineering practice in the future.

Slope stability analysis with a hypoplastic constitutive model: Investigating a stochastic anisotropy model and a hydro‐mechanical coupled simulation

AbstractA reliable constitutive model is essential for accurately predicting slope deformation in numerical analysis, which includes assessing slope stability as an integral component. However, calculating slope stability in numerical models can be challenging due to complex boundary conditions and advanced constitutive models, especially when probabilistic and hydro‐mechanical coupled simulations are required. In this paper, we use a vector‐sum method‐based framework for slope stability analysis that incorporates a critical state hypoplastic constitutive model. The rationality and accuracy of the stability results are initially verified through critical slip surface analysis and a factor of safety evaluation. Subsequently, we investigate the probability‐based slope stability and failure characteristics by incorporating the spatial variability of strength parameters into the hypoplastic model. Finally, the Baishuihe landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region is examined as a case study, where hydro‐mechanical coupled simulations are conducted under actual water level and rainfall conditions. The time‐varying stability and deformation characteristics of the landslide are analyzed and compared with the results obtained from the Mohr‐Coulomb model. The analysis results demonstrate the practicality and efficiency of using a hypoplastic model for probabilistic and time‐varying slope stability calculations. Furthermore, it highlights the superior ability of the hypoplastic model to accurately describe reservoir landslide deformation processes.

Stability analysis of loess fill slope supported by frame prestressed anchors considering tensile strength cut-off

In the stability analysis of loess fill slope, the fissure nature of loess is often ignored, which makes the stability calculation of fill slope too conservative. Based on the upper limit theory of plastic limit analysis, the stability analysis model of loess-filled fissured slope supported by frame prestressed anchors was established. Considering the tensile strength cut-off yield property of soil, the stability coefficient of slope was calculated, and the influence of different factors on slope stability was analyzed. The results show that ignoring the fissures in loess will overestimate the stability of the fill slope, and the support structure can significantly improve the stability of the loess-filled fissure slope. The research results of this paper can further enrich the stability analysis theory of loess-filled fissured slope supported by frame prestressed anchors, which is of great significance to guide engineering practice.

Calculation of slope stability against erosion deformations

The paper considers the problems of erosion deformations occurrence for non-flooded slopes of railroad earth bed, where the main causes of scour are atmospheric precipitation or longitudinal currents along the bottom of the slope. The local stability of slopes is calculated taking into account the estimated velocity of water flow on the slope when water moves along the slope. Climatic conditions and soil characteristics on the Bukhara-Misken line were used for calculations. If local stability of slopes is not ensured, measures for slope stabilization are appointed. The technology of reinforcement of embankment slopes with geosynthetic materials with backfilling with a layer of vegetative soil and grass sowing is considered. The stability coefficient on the displacement surface is calculated taking into account the application of the selected reinforcement design. The stability coefficient on the displacement surface taking into account geomat reinforcement increased 3 times and exceeded the permissible minimum value.

A mathematical approach to calculating slope stability under physical triggering forces. Application to landscape mechanics

In the field of land management, the limit equilibrium calculation method is a mathematical method that harmonizes the complex interplay of diverse factors determining the slope stability. Rooted in mechanical and mathematical principles, this method has paramount significance for guiding the course of safe land management in mountainous regions, especially in the case of infrastructure development projects. Conventional limit equilibrium techniques, while provid- ing preliminary stability assessments, often neglect key factors that can trigger slope failure. These approaches traditionally ignore the spatial variations in soil properties, the temporal dy- namics of phenomena, the kinetic responses to external loads, the complexities of geological formations, and the influences of the hydrological and climatic conditions on slope stability. Our innovative method adopts an enriched mathematical framework that redefines the landscape of force equilibrium techniques. We meticulously tailor this framework by adapting the founda- tional relationships derived from the Mohr-Coulomb shear strength criterion to accommodate the spatially variable geomechanical parameters. This adaptation allows us to capture the nu- anced shifts in mechanical properties over the extent of the slope. Furthermore, we introduce supplementary equations that seamlessly integrate the influences of traffic-induced loads and hydraulic pressures, while also statistically quantifying the contributions of stabilizing struc- tures. To determine the efficacy of this geomatic and landscape-centric numerical tool, we have subjected it to rigorous testing on a test slope. The outcomes derived from our mathematical model reveal the primacy of traffic-related forces as the main destabilizing agents, contrasted with the strengthening effects of reinforcements in maintaining slope stability.

FLAC3D-based slope stability analysis and calculation

Slope stability is related to the normal operation of the project and operational safety, and there have been various methods for evaluating slope stability for a long time, among which the numerical analysis method is the most popular and comprehensive analysis and evaluation method nowadays. In this paper, the numerical simulation is carried out by FLAC3D software to solve the safety coefficient of the slope and the slope stability analysis in combination with the slope of the inverted siphon entry road section at the beginning of Xiaoyuiba, and the conclusions are in line with the actual situation, which shows that FLAC3D software can carry out scientific analysis and evaluation of slope stability and make comprehensive judgement.

Slope stability calculation based on sparrow search algorithm and Monte Carlo simulation

Slope stability calculation based on sparrow search algorithm and Monte Carlo simulation

Features of the methods of the slope stability evaluation

Solving slope stability problems and selecting optimal calculation methods remains an urgent problem. A significant variety of engineering and geological conditions, and a large number of factors that can affect the stability of the slope, lead to the need to select a calculation method in each specific case.
 The article examines the features of the two most common methods of calculating the stability of slopes and slopes in geotechnical practice. The first group - limit equilibrium methods, has been widely tested and is the basis of simple engineering calculations of slope stability. Within the framework of the article, the circular cylindrical sliding surface method based on the method of moments, the method of horizontal forces, the methods of tangential forces based on the analytical method of H.M. Shakhunyanets, with the introduction of calculation schemes and the mathematical apparatus of these methods, are considered. The method of L. P. Yasyunas was also noted due to the idea he highlighted of simplifying calculations using unit shear pressure, which is generally an interesting idea but has certain difficulties in practical implementation. The key advantages and disadvantages of the finite element method for solving slope stability problems are given. The question of combining MSE with the method of reducing strength to determine the coefficient of stability of slopes is highlighted.
 Several software complexes are presented that allow us to automatically determine the coefficient of stability of slopes based on different groups of methods. A comparative calculation of the imaginary slope of PC "Plaxis 2D" and "Ukis" was performed. Two formulations of the problem are considered: for a free slope and with an additional load in the upper part of the slope. The received coefficients of stability and the shape of the sliding surface were analyzed and a generalized table of results was formed. The displayed results demonstrate sufficient convergence, which confirms the possibility of using the specified methods in engineering practice to determine the stability coefficient of slopes.

Large-Scale Construction Waste Mountain-Mounding Technology Based on the Project in Meibei Lake Scenic Area

In the backdrop of China’s rapid economic growth and urbanization, the surge in construction waste poses mounting disposal challenges. This study primarily focuses on in-depth research and exploration of construction waste recycling technologies. By repurposing towering heaps of construction debris into artificial landscapes, it achieves resource reutilization and waste reduction, bearing profound significance for environmental protection, and resource utilization. Taking the Xi’an Meibei Lake Scenic Area construction waste embankment project as a case study, experiments on the physical properties of soil-construction waste mixtures were conducted. A three-dimensional computational model of the site was established, and typical cross-sections were selected for the slope stability calculations and analysis. This was coupled with on-site measurements to validate the practicality and effectiveness of the technology. The successful execution of the project has demonstrated the reliability of this technology, offering significant potential for widespread application and serving as a crucial reference for the similar projects.

Establishing a shallow-landslide prediction method by using machine-learning techniques based on the physics-based calculation of soil slope stability

Establishing a shallow-landslide prediction method by using machine-learning techniques based on the physics-based calculation of soil slope stability

A Case Study Integrating Numerical Simulation and InSAR Monitoring to Analyze Bedding-Controlled Landslide in Nanfen Open-Pit Mine

Bedding-controlled landslides are a common geological hazard for open-pit metal mines and occur on layered rock slopes. It can spread spatially over the final boundary of the dip slope and persist throughout the entire life cycle of the mine, substantially compromising the safety of mining operations. Identifying potential landslide areas and determining the landslide mechanism is crucial for the safety production and slope management of mines. This study proposes a combination of satellite radar interferometry measurement and numerical simulation to determine the landslide mechanism of the bedding-controlled slope in open-pit mines. First, the multidimensional small baseline subset (MSBAS) technique of interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) is used to capture deformation information in the vertical and east–west directions of the slope, locate large-scale and long-term movements, and preliminarily determine the trend of landslides. Then, a layered slope damage constitutive model is established, and a three-dimensional stability calculation of the layered slope is performed using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.3 software based on the strength reduction method to study the development and evolution process of landslides. The effectiveness of the method is validated by a large-scale bedding-controlled slope failure in the Nanfen open-pit mine in Liaoning, China, revealing the failure mechanism of the slope under excavation conditions. The study shows that the eastern slope bedding-controlled landslide in the Nanfen open-pit mine is a multizone composite-mode landslide caused by excavation, which belongs to the shear–slip–tension deformation failure mechanism as a whole. This study provides a new method for analyzing the mechanism of layered rock slope landslides under mining activities in open-pit mines, which can be used to assess and predict similar landslides.