Determining the failure mechanism and analyzing numerical stability of a Loess slope in seismic zones: A case study

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Geology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran

2 Department of Civil Engineering, Gonbad Kavoos branch, Islamic Azad University, Gonabad Kavoos, Iran

3 Department of Civil Engineering, Chaloos branch, Islamic Azad University, Chaloos, Iran

Abstract

The present study aims to investigate the landslide triggering mechanism in AghEmam village in Golestan Province (northeast of Iran). To this end, a set of engineering tools, including field visits, laboratory experiments, geophysical methods, and numerical simulations, were performed. In addition, the mechanical properties of loess soil and the dynamic properties of the site were calculated by conducting some triaxial tests and spectral ratio analysis (H/V) of the microtremor waves, respectively. The subsurface conditions of the landslide were identified by the high-density resistivity geoelectrical method. The results showed that the output of the numerical simulations carried out by PLAXIS software is in good agreement with the geophysical data and field observations. Based on the findings, the failure surface of the AghEmam landslide was curved and occurred due to seepage and dissolution of the cement between the loess grains caused by continuous precipitation. The results showed that stresses were gradually trapped in the slope during the earthquake. Hence, they facilitated landslide initiation by increasing the horizontal dynamic force. Seismic activities also help seepage and accelerate slide by destroying the porous structure of the loess and creating cracks. The simultaneous use of precipitation and earthquake factors in the numerical model decreased the factor of safety (FS), suggesting the inevitable occurrence of landslides in such conditions.

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Article Title [Persian]

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Geopersia

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 29 July 2024

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History

  • Receive Date: 22 March 2024
  • Revise Date: 12 June 2024
  • Accept Date: 29 July 2024

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