Reliability analysis on the stability of slope

Abstract

Slope stability is one of the geotechnical subject most dominated by uncertainty. The current practice in slope stability analysis is based on the limit equilibrium and not directly addresses uncertainty. The objective of this study is to integrate probabilistic approach as a rational means to incorporate uncertainty in the slope stability analysis. The study was made through a hypothetical problem which includes a sensitivity analysis, and two real cases. The methodology is based on Monte Carlo simulation integrated in commercially available computer program SLOPE/W. The output of the analysis is presented as the probability of failure as a measure of the likelihood of the slope failure. Results of this study have verified that the probability of failure is a better measure of slope stability as compared to the factor of safety because it provides a range of value rather than a single value.