3D stability analysis on rock slope blocks using 3DEC method

Block failure is a common failure mode of rock slopes with joints.In order to rationally evaluate the stability of rock slope blocks,the dynamic characteristics and reaction of blocks in rock mass failure are modeled using 3DEC method.The key block in rock slope can be identified by 3DEC simulation.Therefore,the stability of key block can be evaluated using block theory,which in turn provides useful input for slope design.A case study shows that it is an intuitional method to simulate blocks deformation and dynamic movement,and also a scientific mean to identify a key block and its border discontinuities.Therefore,it is an effective method to evaluate block stability and block reactions,which offers data and measures for rock mass slope design and effective management of a slope support scheme.