Slope stability analyses using limit equilibrium and strength reduction methods

Abstract

This paper presents results of comparative slope stability analyses conducted by limit equilibrium and strength reduction methods. Several slopes, taken either from geotechnical practice or literature review, are considered. The influence of tension, distributed load, finite element size and model parameters is analysed in relation to the location, shape of the critical failure surface and the corresponding value of the factor of safety. Both methods provide similar results if they are correctly applied using appropriate software programs.