Stability analysis of rock slopes using strength reduction adaptive finite element limit analysis

The main aim of this study is to propose an effective approach to conduct the stability analysis of rock slopes. Based on the strength reduction technology, the recent developed adaptive finite element limit analysis is adopted to investigate the stability of rock slopes for the first time. The rock mass strength is described by the latest generalized Hoek-Brown failure criterion. To better estimate the rock slope stability, the rock mass disturbance D and slope angle B are also incorporated into the determination of factor of safety by implementing the disturbance weighting factor s and the slope angle weighting factor fB, respectively. The factors of safety obtained from this study are validated by those from existing works based on two real slope cases. For practical use, the factors of safety for the cases of B=45o in undisturbed rock masses are provided in the form of design charts. Finally, a set of design charts for s and a fitting formula for fB are presented and discussed.