Finite element verification of an enhanced limit equilibrium method for slope analysis

Abstract

To determine the critical slip surface in slope analysis, a new procedure has been proposed, based on limit equilibrium method and stress acceptability criteria. This paper uses finite element analysis as an independent tool to validate the new procedure for both homogeneous and non-homogeneous slopes. Good agreement is found between the new procedure and finite element analysis, in terms of the critical acceleration, the critical slip surface and normal and shear stress distribution on the slip surface, in both homogeneous slopes and non-homogeneous slopes. However, when non-associated flow rules are adopted in finite element analysis and the corresponding degree of non-normality is high, some differences are noticed. The reason for this difference is explained.