Progressive failure mechanisms in a slope prone to toppling
Date
2011-09Type
ArticleAuthor
Martin, Derek
Alzo'ubi, Abdelkareem
Milne Cruden, David
Metadata
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The Checkerboard Creek rock slope is located upstream of the Revelstoke hydroelectric dam, British
Columbia, Canada. Annual surface movements of approximately 10 mm have been recorded over the past
25 years. The movement is occurring within a 60-m-deep weathered zone. A numerical modelling
methodology based on a discrete element framework was used to investigate progressive failure of the slope
that lacks a basal rupture surface but does contain discontinuous joints and shears. The methodology, which
assigns internal micro-structure to the intact rock allows for both shear and tensile failure through intact
rock bridges and for slip along existing discontinuities. The progressive failure modelling methodology was
used to estimate the effect of continued weathering on the stability of the slope. A velocity boundary
condition was also applied to the slope surface to estimate the time to failure. The simulations predicted that
slope instability would localize at the steepest part of the slope but could take nearly 200 years to occur,
assuming the current deformation rate of 10 mm/year, continues.