Slope stability analysis of critical slope along North South Highway (Southern Region) using limit equilibrium method

The occurrence of slope failure is always hard to be predicted. Hence, slope stability analysis must be often carried out in order to ensure the slope is safe and also minimise the probability of slope failure. The slope stability analysis is a prediction on what conditions that can make the slope fail. In this study, the Limit Equilibrium approach is used to determine the degree of stability in terms of Factor of Safety (FOS). Malaysia climatic condition that governed by wet and dry periods will give an effect to the FOS of the slope in terms of shrinkage and creep that accelerate the development of tension cracks on the slope surface. The Proposed Slope Stabilization Works at KM 16.10 (Northbound) Machap - Skudai Expressway has been chosen as a case study. This slope is considered as critical slope because it has been experience a failure in 2004. Tension cracks and high intensity rainfall has been specified as a factor that accelerate the probability of slope failure. The results obtained using SLOPE/W shown that, the slope analyzed is still intact with the minimum FOS is 1.258 even though with the presence of the two factors. Based on that the slope analyzed is confirmed to be safe and the slope has been constructed based on an adequate design.