Master of Science theses supervised by staff of the Section Engineering Geology

1992. Research project report on rock slope stability in Falset, Spain / by
Cindarto. - Delft : ITC, 1992. - 169 p. ; 30 cm. - ITC MSc-thesis ABSTRACT, supervisor: Hack, thesis availability: ITC Library

ABSTRACT

Literature review and back analysis calculations have been carried out to study the effects of geometry and strength parameters of discontinuities in the rock slope with respect to its stability. Two unstable rock slopes in ITC-TU Delft's field work area (1990 through 1992) in Falset, Spain have been used as case study.

The first rock slope is a limestone slope that shows a typical plane failure mechanism which can be analyzed directly using the basic mechanics of limiting equilibrium method. The second rock slope is a slate slope which has general slip surface due to the variation of its foliation. Janbu's method of slices and Sarma's method of non-vertical slices have been used to analyze this slope. The results of limiting equilibrium analysis of these slopes were simulated by UDEC, distinct element program. The results of both limiting equilibrium and distinct element analysis were comparable not until the model allows blocks to rotate and deform extensively.

The research study carried out on these two unstable rock slopes revealed that the orientation and the strength parameters of the internal discontinuities which across the sliding body have significant influences on the stability of the slope. Internal discontinuities can be the existing shear zones, faults, bedding planes and joints (geological factors).