Development of a Python']Python script for strength reduction with numerical methods

The application of numerical methods in geotechnics until now is mostly limited to the prediction of the deformation behaviour of structures regarding the serviceability limit state. The ultimate limit state has so far been handled rudimentarily (e.g. for homogeneous slopes and piled raft foundations), using numerical methods, such as the finite element method. In the present paper, therefore, the basis for the application of a unified method for parallel strength reduction on structural elements and a reduction of the shear parameters of the soil is discussed. In a first parametric study, a script based on the Python programming language for reducing the shear parameters of the soil is verified by comparison with approved methods for calculating the overall stability of slopes. Subsequently, the application boundaries of the Python script are extended to reduce the strength parameters of structural elements within a slope at risk of stability in the framework of a second parametric study. Based on this, an assessment of probable first failure mechanism (soil or structural failure) is made. Finally, the results of the two parametric studies are put into a causal context, considering a numerical verification with discussion of future research approaches.