Simulation of Plane Sliding and Toppling Failure using Scaled-Down Rock Slope Models

Abstract

A test platform was constructed for use in the simulation of failure of scaled-down rock slopes under real gravitational force.  The model capability is demonstrated by simulating two-dimensional plane sliding and toppling failure of rock slopes formed by cubical and rectangular blocks of Phu Phan sandstone, under various slope heights and face angles.   Results from over 200 tests suggest that the test platform can realistically simulate the two modes of failure.  The factors of safety calculated by deterministic method over-estimate the actual observations of plane sliding by as much as 30%, particularly for slopes with low sliding plane angles.  The observed toppling failures agree well with those determined by Hoek and Bray solution when the friction between blocks is considered in the calculation.