The Initiation of Failure in Slopes in Overconsolidated Clays and Clay Shales

摘要

The conditions leading to the initiation of failure in slopes of overconsolidated clay or clay shale are investigated by means of two finite element programs. The analysis is two-dimensional and assumes plane strain in a homogeneous semi-infinite mass. The material is assumed to be linearly elastic and isotropic with body forces. No pore pressure effects are analyzed. The effects of initial stress ratio, slope angle, and available friction, are investigated for two smooth bottom models and the one rough bottom model. The results are presented in a dimensionless ratio involving the cohesion required to prevent the beginning of failure and the overburden stress at the toe before excavation.