Probabilistic stability analyses of undrained slopes with linearly increasing mean strength.

Based on recently published deterministic solutions as a benchmark, the random finite-element method is used here to investigate the influence of spatial variability on the undrained stability of normally consolidated random slopes, where the mean strength increases linearly with depth while the coefficient of variation remains constant. Results are presented in the form of charts that give the mean and standard deviation of a dimensionless stability number. Using the charts presented in this note, engineers can obtain a preliminarily assessment of the probability of failure of normally consolidated clay slopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]