Bank Stability Algorithm for Numerical Modeling of Channel Width Adjustment.
Abstract
Existing numerical models of river channel morphology are seriously limited in their application by their inability to account for bank erosion and changing channel width. In this report, a new bank stability analysis is developed which combines the advantages of the Osman-Thorne-Darby analysis with the advantages of the Simon et al. (1991) analysis, with the aim being to improve the predictive ability of the mass-wasting algorithm and, therefore, the predictive ability of the numerical channel widening model. The new analysis is applicable to steep, cohesive, non-layered riverbanks which fail along planar failure surfaces. The analysis is developed for banks with profiles characteristic of natural, eroding riverbanks. Failure plane angles are calculated using a physically-based approach; additionally the failure plane is not constrained to pass through the toe of the bank. Pore water and hydrostatic confining pressure effects are included in the analysis. Using the procedure developed by Darby (1994), the new analysis also is capable of predicting the probability of mass failure, as well as the overall factor of safety with respect to mass failure.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA290618
Entities
People
- Colin R. Thorne
- Stephen E. Darby
Organizations
- University of Nottingham