Analysis of Flexural Toppling Failure in Rock Slopes Using Discrete Element Method

Flexural toppling failure is a common mode of natural and artificial rock slopes, which has caused serious damage to human life property. In this work, an advanced numerical method called the Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC) was used study mechanism flexural failure. total, more than twenty slope models were built analyzed. Two new parameters (displacement discontinuity transition coefficient surface) introduced present further understanding toppling. The results show zone slopes subjected includes two parts: first-order instability part (FOIP) independent (ITZ). FOIP can be divided into subzones: sliding (SZ) superimposed (STZ). occurrence surface deformation discontinuities precursor first displacement occurs on boundary between ITZ. angle, spacing, angle joints, significant influence stability anti-dip bedding slopes. However, they do not affect pattern slope.