Probabilistic Slope Stability Analysis by Finite Elements
Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 130, Issue 5
Abstract
In this paper we investigate the probability of failure of a cohesive slope using both simple and more advanced probabilistic analysis tools. The influence of local averaging on the probability of failure of a test problem is thoroughly investigated. In the simple approach, classical slope stability analysis techniques are used, and the shear strength is treated as a single random variable. The advanced method, called the random finite-element method (RFEM), uses elastoplasticity combined with random field theory. The RFEM method is shown to offer many advantages over traditional probabilistic slope stability techniques, because it enables slope failure to develop naturally by “seeking out” the most critical mechanism. Of particular importance in this work is the conclusion that simplified probabilistic analysis, in which spatial variability is ignored by assuming perfect correlation, can lead to unconservative estimates of the probability of failure. This contradicts the findings of other investigators who used classical slope stability analysis tools.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 130 • Issue 5 • May 2004
Pages: 507 - 518
Copyright
Copyright © 2004 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Dec 31, 2002
Accepted: Jun 9, 2003
Published online: Apr 15, 2004
Published in print: May 2004
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