Influence of block shape and size distribution on bimslope stability: a numerical investigation of static and seismic behavior
摘要
Geomaterials with block-in-matrix textures are complex, heterogeneous materials. The behaviour of this Soil-Rock Mixture under external loading differs significantly from that of pure rock or soil. As a result, executing engineering projects on these materials can be quite challenging. To ensure safety and stability, it is essential to assess the mechanical properties of the Soil-Rock Mixture, including block proportion, size, shape, orientation, and soil-rock interaction. This study employed numerical simulations using Finite Element Method analysis in RocScience RS2 software to assess the safety factor of the slopes made up of Soil-Rock Mixture, or commonly known as Bimslope. The analysis included variation in the percentages of volumetric block proportions and block sizes, derived from statistical analysis, to effectively represent the distribution of blocks in the field. Simulations were conducted under both static and seismic loading conditions, resulting in a comprehensive evaluation of the Bimslope’s stability. The results indicated that when the slope consists of a combination of different block shapes, the safety factor increases due to the formation of a tortuous failure surface, which is more stable than a slope having uniform shape blocks. The angular shape of blocks improves interlocking, which leads to a more effective failure surface that requires more energy to shear through. This increased interlocking and high interface friction enhance the overall shear strength and stability of the slope. Additionally, it was found that if the blocks are located at the upper portion of the slope and are aligned parallel to the slope angle, they are more susceptible to sliding off. Under seismic loading conditions, most slopes were found to be unsafe, except for those with a higher proportion of smaller blocks.