Improved characterization and analysis of bi-planar dip slope failures to limit model and parameter uncertainty in the determination of setback distances

A dip slope is a natural or man-made rock slope with a persistent discontinuity behind the slope face that is coincident with, or similar to the slope inclination. Most dip slope failures occur in weak, orthogonally jointed sedimentary rock with toe breakout involving sliding along joints, plastic failure of intact blocks, and/or intense deformation of the slope that facilitates kinematic release. Dip slope failures have been reported to extend more than 20 percent of the slope’s height behind the crest, making this rock slope failure mechanism relevant in the context of engineering projects. Nonetheless, dip slope failure mechanisms and evaluation methods are not well understood because of the complexity of the toe breakout. This thesis provides an overview of dip slope failure mechanisms where bi-planar failures may occur. It provides specific guidance for evaluating a dip slope’s stability state predicated on an extensive literature review, numerical modeling, and parametric evaluations. The thesis provides methods for effectively planning and executing geotechnical investigations with the goal of establishing a dip slope’s stability state. Finally the thesis uses a comprehensive case study where very detailed geotechnical information is available as data for dip slope design. In summary, the results of this study and research suggest that: 1) typical failure mechanisms for dip slopes can be characterized and anticipated based on documented case histories and therefore site investigations should be customized towards evaluating the potential for those failure mechanisms, 2) typical geotechnical investigation and analysis methods (supplemented with numerical modeling where appropriate) may be used to evaluate a dip slope's stability state, 3) the influence of the rock mass shear strength at the toe and the failure mechanisms assumed for toe breakout is paramount while establishing a dip slope’s stability state where slopes are steeper than about 45 degrees, 4) the stability state of shallow dip slopes is dominated by the shear strength of the slope-coincident sliding surface, 5) statistical evaluations of other geotechnical parameters that dictate a dip slope’s stability suggest that at a scoping level, geotechnical investigation methods can be cost effectively planned to provide value to the geotechnical project, and 6) risk sharing dictates the current methods of dip slope evaluation and these methods can be improved based on the research contained herein.Science, Faculty ofEarth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Department ofGraduat