Investigation of Lateral Stress Relief Using Finite Elements and Fracture Mechanics: Case History Study of the Saxon Pit
Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 138, Issue 10
Abstract
A published case history on the performance of a 29-m-deep excavation that occurred in stiff Oxford clay provides direct field evidence that lateral stress relief can produce shear planes. A finite-element model was developed to investigate the impact of lateral stress relief on this slope. The finite-element model utilized published site characterization data and incorporated shear-strength reductions along closed failure planes. Lateral stress relief resulted in an outward slope face movement that produced sufficient differential shear strain to develop and propagate a horizontal crack at the base of the slope. Analyses indicate excellent agreement with observed lateral and vertical slope face movements. The finite-element model suggests that the slope essentially behaved as a shear model. Recognizing the behavior of this slope, the principles of linear elastic fracture mechanics are expanded to consider closed crack propagation under shear loading conditions. Analyses indicate that a closed crack under shear loading will propagate along the preexisting crack plane, as observed in the Oxford Slope.
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Published In
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 138 • Issue 10 • October 2012
Pages: 1277 - 1283
Copyright
© 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Mar 19, 2011
Accepted: Dec 19, 2011
Published online: Dec 23, 2011
Published in print: Oct 1, 2012
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