Numerical modelling of geological processes as means for the diagnosis of ancient landslide mechanisms

The occurrence of deep paleo-landslides in marine clays is a well-documented phenomenon in multiple slopes within the south-eastern Italian Apennines and their associated foredeep basin. To accurately diagnose the mechanisms occurring in such landslides, a comprehensive numerical simulation of the processes leading to the initial slope failures is essential. This approach is only feasible when the geological history of the soil deposit has been meticulously evaluated. This paper presents a methodological procedure adopted to assist in diagnosing the current activity of a slow-moving, deep-seated ancient landslide using hydro-mechanical modelling. To investigate the processes leading to the initial slope failures, elasto-plastic finite element simulations have been conducted. These simulations aim to replicate the geological processes that the slope has experienced, which are identified as the key contributors to the landslide’s inception. The application of this numerical modelling procedure has proven to be a valuable diagnostic tool, enhancing the understanding of the ancient landslide mechanism and providing insights into its current features, such as the position of the toe, landslide depth, and style of movement.