Stability Monitoring of Embankments Constructed by Volcanic Coarse-Grained Soil in Snowy-Cold Regions

Abstract

This study aims to identify the characteristics of a large-scale embankment constructed from volcanic soil in snowy-cold regions during all seasons and to confirm the validity of the prediction method for rainfall-induced failure that has been proposed in previous studies. To realize the aims, a series of laboratory-based model tests will be conducted initially on small-scale embankments constructed with a representative volcanic soil. Thereafter, a large-scale embankment was constructed in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, Japan. The same volcanic soil as that used in the model testing was utilized as the construction material. Taking into consideration the results of the field monitoring, model test, and stability analysis, the aspects of slope failure were clarified. It was shown that the rainfall-induced failure of an embankment could be uniquely evaluated by estimating the changes in water content in zones exposed to freezing and thawing. Finally, a stability monitoring protocol based on infiltration theory is discussed in detail.