3D dynamic response back analysis of failure mechanisms of a high dip bedding rock slope in earthquake

The failure of a high rock slope is a common phenomena in nature, however it is a very complex subject which is worth studding. This paper presents an analytical method, which is a combination of methods of engineering geology and back analysis, for simulating the deformation behaviors in earthquake and providing some useful insights into the deformation mechanisms. Based on a project of a high dip bedding rock slope of a hydropower station in Southwest China, at first the engineering geological characteristics of the high slope is analyzed. Secondly, a 3D numerical model of the slope before the earthquake is established by estimating the ancient topographic and morphologic characteristics and reinstating the glided mass. Then the software FLAC3D is used to analyze the seismic time-history response of this slope. The calculated results accord with the situation happened in the earthquake. Finally, this 3D dynamic response back analysis method can provides the dynamic coefficients of rock mass which can be used in the next numerical modeling for this slope.