Analysis of the Response Mechanism of Slopes With Different Inclinations Under Rainfall Infiltration

ABSTRACT Currently, the destabilization mechanisms of slopes due to rainfall infiltration are not fully understood. We conducted physical model tests to measure displacement and pore water pressure from rainfall, using the data to validate numerical models. This study explores how rainfall intensity and duration affect these measures across loess slopes with varying steepness. The goal is to understand slope responses to different rainfall conditions. Our findings indicate that steeper gradients see modest increases in displacement and pore water pressure at the top and mid‐slope, but these increases are more pronounced at the toe. The changes at the toe and mid‐slope are driven by infiltrated rainwater volume and soil compressive behavior, while top‐slope displacement is primarily due to infiltration. Continuous deformation was observed during and after the rainfall events. Post‐rain, pressure from saturated soil at the slope's apex amplifies pore water pressure at the toe, influenced by gravitational forces and retained water pressure. This underscores the complex interactions affecting slope stability in wet conditions. Understanding loess slopes' responses can improve predictive models and mitigation strategies, reducing infrastructure and safety risks in these vulnerable areas.