Application of Hybrid Finite/Discrete Element Modelling for Back-Analysis of Rock Slope Failure Mechanisms

Authors: Coggan, JS; Pine, RJ; Styles, TD; Stead, D

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/708_15

Cite As:
Coggan, JS, Pine, RJ, Styles, TD & Stead, D 2007, 'Application of Hybrid Finite/Discrete Element Modelling for Back-Analysis of Rock Slope Failure Mechanisms', in Y Potvin (ed.), Slope Stability 2007: Proceedings of the 2007 International Symposium on Rock Slope Stability in Open Pit Mining and Civil Engineering, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 267-277, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/708_15

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Abstract:
Slope stability in fractured rock masses is of fundamental importance across a wide spectrum of applications including landslides in coastal and hill areas, most rock quarry excavations, large scale open pits and civil engineering projects for transportation corridors (principally road and rail). Numerical modelling, when used appropriately, can be used to provide insight into potential failure mechanisms and assist the slope design process. Back-analysis of previous slope instability provides valuable information regarding the failure mechanism and, importantly, can provide valuable data for future design. A review of the results from both previous and more recent modelling of the back-analysis of the 1967 failure of the West face at Delabole Slate Quarry is used to provide the framework for evaluation of the application and benefits of potential methods of slope stability analysis. This includes the results from more recent modelling using a hybrid finite/discrete element modelling approach to model complex rock slope failure, including fracture extension, progressive step-path failure and brittle fracture propagation.

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