Modeling a Full Scale Landslide Test

The power of the finite element analysis method is clearly demonstrated in this case study. Finite element analysis was used to evaluate the Platepile method for stabilizing shallow landslides. The Platepile Method consists of the installation of arrays of steel elements driven vertically into the slope at spacing of 1 meter (4 feet) horizontally and 1 to 3 meters (4 to 10 feet) up and down the slope. A field testing program included full scale landslide tests. Finite element modeling predicted the maximum layer that could be stabilized by 2 meters (6 feet) long. A second full scale field test was performed to validate the effectiveness of the method for the maximum predicted layer thickness. The following discussion describes the Platepile method, the program for testing the validity of the concept and the use of finite element modeling to develop numerous varying configurations of slope conditions and soil parameters.