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A slope stability analysis method using the finite element method and the limit equilibrium principle is presented in this paper to determine the critical slip surface and to calculate the minimum safety factor based on the stress field produced by a numerical simulation. This method assumes a cutting export and makes good use of geometric combination to reduce the search range during the calculation process. The proposed method was validated using two classical benchmark slopes and an engineering slope; it was also compared with other conventional limit equilibrium methods. The error between the proposed method and the limit equilibrium method was relatively small. The proposed method resolved several limitations of the traditional methods, and a comparison of the benchmark slopes showed that the proposed method exhibited good accuracy and efficiency. The proposed method can thus analyse both the stability of a natural slope and the stability of a soil slope under seismic loading conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computer modelling and stability analyses of the New Orleans I-walls with and without the consideration of gap formation has drawn significant attention of the engineering community during the post Katrina period. In addition, when the sheet pile penetrates into sand layer, seepage becomes an integral part of the stability analysis. Basic guidelines have been developed for the analysis of this problem by other researchers and documented by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). However, the inherent complexity of the problem and uncertainties associated with the choice of analysis methods warrant for further investigation of this problem in detail so that more useful insights can be gained. In this paper, a comprehensive analysis of this complex coupled problem of seepage and stability of a typical New Orleans I-wall is presented using different limit equilibrium methods of slope stability analysis. Useful comparisons are made between the analyses results and methodologies. The authors believe that the findings of this study will enhance the understanding of the behaviour of the I-wall sheet pile system subjected to seepage forces, when different limit equilibrium methods of analyses are invoked. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]