Integrated assessment of slope stability considering the combined effect of reservoir water and bridge loads: a case study in TGR

Purpose In 2024, the newly designed Badong Yangtze River Second Bridge, a river-crossing structure in the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) region, was prioritized for development. Both the reservoir water and the loads imposed by the bridge present significant threats to the stability of the bank slopes and the safety of the bridge foundations. Existing research has primarily focused on the impact of reservoir water levels, with limited attention given to slope-bridge interactions. To address this gap, the present study conducted an integrated assessment of slope stability using the finite element method, considering the combined effects of reservoir water and bridge loads. Design/methodology/approach The deformation and stress distribution were analyzed using finite element method(FEM), with the newly designed Badong Yangtze River Second Bridge serving as a case study. This assessment incorporated various triggering factors, including hydrostatic pressure, seepage fields, vertical loads, and bending moments of the bridge. Findings Under the combined effects, the main pier on the north bank experiences a total horizontal displacement of 26.3 mm. This displacement includes 23.0 mm caused solely by hydrostatic pressure and seepage fields, highlighting the significant influence of these factors on the north bank. The reliability of the calculation results was verified by comparing them with the previously reported monitoring data from the selected point closest to the bridge site, demonstrating good consistency. Originality/value The findings of this study can provide theoretical basis for the early warning of reservoir bank landslides and the service life of Badong Yangtze River Second Bridge in the TGR.