Slope stability analysis by local strength reduction method

There is an inherent relationship between deformation and stability of slope, so it is possible to identify the stability of slope by deformation field. Based on ideal elastoplastic model, the typical strength reduction method reduces strength of all elements of slope. Therefore, the deformation field by the typical method can not reflect real deformation when slope is close to instability. In fact, slope failure occurs when strengths of some regional soils are sufficiently weakened; so local strength reduction method is proposed here. According to local strength reduction method, only local soils strengths are reduced; and strength of the other soils keep unchanged. Moreover, this paper uses variable modulus elastoplastic model instead of ideal elastoplastic model. Actual engineering example shows that the slope stability analysis, which is based on local strength reduction method and variable modulus elastoplastic model, is feasible and rational.