Searching techniques in slope stability analysis

Abstract Searching techniques for location of critical potential failure surfaces in two-dimensional slope stability analysis are presented. A computer program, STABL, developed at Purdue University, features unique random techniques for generation of circular as well as irregular trial failure surfaces in the search for the more critical ones. The stability calculation in STABL is based on methods of slices. The simplified Bishop method is adopted for circular failure surfaces, and the simplified Janbu method for general shapes of failure surfaces. The Janbu procedure usually provides somewhat conservative results. Other procedures may be adapted to the program.