Field Investigation and Finite Element Analysis of Landslide-Triggering Factors of a Cut Slope Composed of Granite Residual Soil: A Case Study of Chongtou Town, Lishui City, China

Abstract

Landslides caused by excavations and precipitation events are widespread types of slope failures in southwest Zhejiang, China, in areas with granite residual soil. Investigations of the effect of high precipitation on the hydrological response, stability, and evolutionary mechanism of cut slopes in granite soil areas are lacking. The characteristics of historical landslides in Chongtou Town in southwestern Zhejiang were summarized, and a typical slope was selected for analysis. The hydraulic and mechanical properties of the residual soil and fully weathered granite were tested, and the surface displacements on the slope were monitored. Geo-studio was utilized to establish a coupled seepage-deformation model to validate the numerical method and investigate the landslide-triggering factors of the cut slope. The results showed nearly all historical landslides in Chongtou Town were triggered by precipitation events, and the slide bodies consisted of residual soil and fully weathered granite with similar geotechnical properties. The simulated and measured horizontal displacements were in good agreement, indicating the reliability of the established model and parameters. The stability coefficient decreased with an increase in the gradient or height of the cut slope. The critical height values were 5.3 m, 5.5 m, 5.7 m, 6.0 m, and 6.3 m at slopes of 60°, 65°, 70°, 75°, and 80°, respectively. Long-term torrential rain and short-term high-intensity precipitation events are likely to trigger landslides when the precipitation event lasts longer than 26 h and 78 h, respectively. The landslide formation includes four stages: slope evolution, formation of unloading zone at slope foot, migration and loss of soil particles, and instability of the cut slope. The findings can be used to prevent and manage landslides on cut slopes in areas with granite residual soil.