Analysis of Static Stability of Earth-Rockfill Dam Slope Based on PSO-PR-IE Method

In order to fully consider the advantages of the anti-sliding performance of the contact interface using the partitioned rigid body–interface element (PR-IE) method, the static stability analysis method of earth-rockfill dam slope based on the PR-IE method was improved, and the particle swarm optimization (PSO) method was adopted, yielding a static stability analysis method of earth-rockfill dam slope based on PSO-PR-IE method. Firstly, through case analysis, the characteristics of the algorithm were thoroughly studied, and the similarities and dissimilarities in the outcomes between the PR-IE method and the conventional analytical methods were further elucidated. Next, this method was applied to the static stability analysis of the earth-rockfill dam slope of a hydroelectric project in Rwanda. The results demonstrate that the safety factor values obtained by the PR-IE method fall within the result ranges of several conventional methods. However, these values are relatively larger compared to those of the slip surface stress method. With the slip surface positions remaining consistent, the safety factors calculated by the PR-IE method are mostly slightly higher than those calculated by the slip surface stress method. In terms of the minimum values, the minimum values calculated by the slip surface stress method and the PR-IE method are 1.820 and 1.850, respectively, and the relative percentage between the two is 1.65%. The results indicate that compared to the slip surface stress method based on finite elements, the static stability analysis method for the earth-rockfill dam slope based on the PSO-PR-IE method can take into account the safety reserve of the slip surface more comprehensively. Moreover, the calculation results still fall within the overall result range of the slice method and the slip surface stress method, indicating that the current code standards are still applicable to the PR-IE method. The adoption of the PSO-PR-IE method in engineering provides an effective approach for the static stability analysis of earth-rockfill dam slopes. It is expected to play a significant role in future earth-rockfill dam projects, offering technical support for ensuring the safety and stability of earth-rockfill dams.