Jointed Rock Slope Stability Analysis Using Finite-Element Limit-Equilibrium Method

The finite-element limit-equilibrium method (FELEM) has been successfully applied for the stability analysis of soil slopes and homogeneous rock slopes. It employs optimization algorithms to identify the critical slip surface and determine the minimum factor of safety (FOS). The FOS is calculated using the finite-element method with either elastic or elastic–perfectly plastic models. To extend its utility to jointed rock slopes, a two-dimensional FELEM employing elastic finite-element stress fields is proposed. Two main enhancements are suggested: a method to identify the slip surface in jointed rock slopes and an improved FOS definition to mitigate conservatism due to excessive tensile stress. Four typical scenarios of jointed rock slopes with nonpersistent or persistent joints are analyzed to validate the proposed FELEM. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the method in assessing the stability of jointed rock slopes.