Earthen slope stability using dimensional analysis

Abstract Slope stability is an important aspect in the management of civil engineering projects. The stability of earth slopes is a significant concern for safety and the economy. There are several methods for finding the safety factor. Spencer’s method is considered one of the most accurate methods for calculating the factor of safety but it depends on the others on dividing the slope geometry into the number of slices with complicated calculations. This paper introduced a new theoretical equation (using dimensional analysis) capable of defining and testing the slope stability of the natural and man-made slope of the earth without complicated calculations. The major and significant variables which affect and contribute to the stability of a slope will be listed and discussed. The Geo-SLOPE and SEEP software were used to present the stability analyses of the earth dam and compare the result. The derived equation shows the excellent relationship between the factor of safety concerning the ratio of internal friction angle over slope angle ∅/α and the hydraulic gradient. The main objective is to set a new rapid method for checking the stability of slopes instead of a complex calculation that can describe the slope stability of the natural earth slope.