Slope Stability Analysis by Strength Reduction Based on Distinct Element Method

The traditional methods of analysis of slope stability primarily include limit equilibrium method and the finite element method.The traditional limit equilibrium method is unable to obtain the sliding surface of the jointed rock slope stability safety factor,and the finite element method for jointed rock slope stability analysis needs to set the jointed unit.The discrete element method can truly express the geometric characteristics of jointed rock mass,and be easy to handle the problem of rock mass destruction about nonlinear deformation and destruction that are concentrated in the joints surface,so it can better simulate the slope stability conditions.The stability of soil and the jointed rock slopes were analyzed by means of the universal distinct element code(UDEC) combined with the strength reduction method.The results show that the discrete element strength reduction method has potential advantages in the slop stability analysis and it is a feasible and effective method for jointed rock slope stability analysis.