Seismic Displacements in Slopes by Limit Analysis

Abstract

TO avoid the complication in the calculation of progressive failure using the stress‐strain approach, and the inaccuracy of using the pseudo‐static analysis in seismic slope stability analysis, it is desirable to develop an effective method with which the critical state of the slope and the effects of earthquake on the slope stability can be determined directly. The present work is an attempt, within the framework of conventional pseudo‐static analysis, to develop a model for the evaluation of the critical state and the subsequent displacement response of slopes to earthquakes. The upper‐bound pseudo‐static limit analysis is applied for the determination of critical state of slopes, in this case, the yield acceleration and corresponding failure mechanism. Based on the calculated yield acceleration and the critical failure surface, Newmark's analytical procedure is then used to assess the soil displacements of slopes, which are subjected to a given earthquake load.