Discussion on “Analytical technique for stability analyses of the rock slope subjected to slide head toppling failure mechanisms considering groundwater and stabilization effects” by Bowa and Gong (2021)

Toppling failure is categorized into two primary forms: main and secondary. A notable instability mechanism within the secondary category, identified as slide-head-toppling failure, happens when a weak layer underlies rock blocks. This failure mechanism is characterized by toppling instability in the uppermost rock layer, combined with sliding along the underlying weak zone. The consequential failure represents a hybrid mechanism, integrating both sliding and toppling, which has critical consequences for the stability of geotechnical structures. Bowa and Gong (Bowa and Gong in Int J Geo-Engineering 12:1–25, 2021) proposed a theoretical approach for evaluating the stability of rock slopes experiencing slide-head toppling failure, incorporating the effects of groundwater and stabilization measures. The limitations of this study are thoroughly discussed.