Analysis of excavated clay slopes: a multi-stage finite element approach

The work presented in this thesis is the result of investigations into the stability of excavated slopes in overconso I idated clay using the finite element method- The finite element method of stress analysis was chosen because it has many advantages over conventional stability analysis techniques. Conventional stability analysis techniques are described and their suitability for particular stability problems is outlined. Suggested mechanisms of slope failure are then reviewed, and in particular, attention is given to ideas concerning progressive failure in both soil and rock slopes. Some examples of progressive failure are also given.