Application of Finite Element Method in Determining Stability of Crater Slopes.

Abstract

The investigations reported herein comprise studies to evaluate applicability of the finite element method to stability analysis of explosively excavated slopes. A finite element program based on nonlinear material properties was developed during this study. The program incorporates a capability to simulate incremental constructin of slopes of arbitrary geometry either by excavation or by building up. The stress-strain relationships of materials forming the slope and its foundations are approximated by hyperbolic curves. The hyperbolic curves are asymptotic to the yield strength of the materials as defined by Mohr-Coulomb strength parameters. Initial states of stress may be incorporated into the analyses. Several examples of simple slopes under various initial states of stress were analyzed. Additional examples were a symmetrical, homogeneous embankment on a rigid foundation and hypothetical row crater excavation slope. Stresses and displacements for the different examples are presented along with a method for determining the factor of safety of a slope from nonlinear stress analysis. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1972
Accession Number
AD0737178

Entities

People

  • Don C. Banks
  • John B. Palmerton

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Displacement
  • Embankments
  • Excavation
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Geometry
  • Materials
  • Mathematics
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Physical Properties
  • Stress Analysis
  • Stress Strain Relations
  • Stresses
  • Yield Strength

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Fluid Dynamics.
  • Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Life Cycle Cost Analysis