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Application of Limit Equilibrium Analysis and Numerical Modeling in a Case of Slope Instability

Author

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  • Fhatuwani Sengani

    (Department of Geology and Mining, University of Limpopo, Sovenga 0727, South Africa
    Department of Electrical and Mining Engineering, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, Johannesburg 1710, South Africa)

  • François Mulenga

    (Department of Electrical and Mining Engineering, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, Johannesburg 1710, South Africa)

Abstract

The application of limit equilibrium analysis and numerical simulation in case of slope instability is described. The purpose of the study was to use both limit equilibrium methods (LEMs) and numerical simulations (finite element method (FEM)) to understanding the common factor imposing the selected slope into slope instabilities. Field observations, toppling analysis, rotational analysis, and numerical simulations were performed. The results of the study showed that the selected unstable slopes were associated with the sliding types of toppling; it was observed that the slopes were governed by tension cracks and layered soil mass and dominated with approximately two joints sets throughout. The simulated factor of safety (FoS) of the slopes composed of clay soil was denoted to be prone to slope instability while others were categorized as moderately stable. The simulated FoS of the slopes correlated very well with the visual observations; however, it is anticipated that properties of soil mass and other characteristics of the slopes contributed largely to the simulated FoS. The sensitivity of the model was further tested by looking into the effect of the slope angle on the stability of the slope. The results of the simulations showed that the steeper the slope, the more they become prone to instability. Lastly, Phase 2 numerical simulation (FEM) showed that volumetric strain, shear stress, shear strain, total displacement, and σ 1 and σ 3 components of the slope increase with the stages of the road construction. It was concluded improper road construction, steepness of the slope, slope properties (soil types), and multiple geological features cutting across are the common mechanisms behind the slope instability.

Suggested Citation

  • Fhatuwani Sengani & François Mulenga, 2020. "Application of Limit Equilibrium Analysis and Numerical Modeling in a Case of Slope Instability," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(21), pages 1-33, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:12:y:2020:i:21:p:8870-:d:434851
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Fhatuwani Sengani & Dhiren Allopi, 2022. "Accuracy of Two-Dimensional Limit Equilibrium Methods in Predicting Stability of Homogenous Road-Cut Slopes," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(7), pages 1-26, March.
    2. Shaoling Li & Chi Qiu & Jiankun Huang & Xiaoping Guo & Yucun Hu & Al-Shami Qahtan Mugahed & Jin Tan, 2022. "Stability Analysis of a High-Steep Dump Slope under Different Rainfall Conditions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(18), pages 1-18, September.
    3. Grzegorz Kacprzak & Mateusz Frydrych & Paweł Nowak, 2023. "Influence of Load–Settlement Relationship of Intermediate Foundation Pile Group on Numerical Analysis of a Skyscraper under Construction," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-20, February.
    4. Dongli Li & Miaojun Sun & Echuan Yan & Tao Yang, 2021. "The Effects of Seismic Coefficient Uncertainty on Pseudo-Static Slope Stability: A Probabilistic Sensitivity Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(15), pages 1-15, August.

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