Discussion of 'A new approach for application of rock mass classification on rock slope stability assessment' by Liu and Chen, Engineering Geology, 89:129-143 (2007)

摘要

As part of a highway project, stability of slopes is investigated at different stages of site investigation with varying details. At the preliminary stage, methodology including quick field check supported by aerial photographs and other remote sensing techniques, as well as landslide susceptibility analyses by using various techniques may be useful to delineate areas having landslides or prone to landsliding. However, at the detailed investigation stage, the stability of natural or cut slopes should be specifically determined together with recommendations on the use of remedial measures. For a specific cut slope, one should assess the types of failures. For discontinuity-controlled failures (e.g. planar, wedge, topple), limit equilibrium analysis is performed if kinematic analysis shows that failure is likely. On the other hand, if mass failure (not discontinuity-controlled) is likely due to weathering or presence of highly jointed rock mass, then limit equilibrium analysis with appropriate method is used. Shear strength parameters (cohesion-c and interna friction angle-phi) are very important inputs for the analysis.