Work

Numerical modelling of geological processes as means for the diagnosis of ancient landslide mechanisms

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The occurrence of deep paleo-landslides in marine clays is a well-documented phenomenon in multiple slopes within the south-eastern Italian Apennines and their associated foredeep basin. To accurately diagnose the mechanisms occurring in such landslides, a comprehensive numerical simulation of the processes leading to the initial slope failures is essential. This approach is only feasible when the geological history of the soil deposit has been meticulously evaluated. This paper presents a methodological procedure adopted to assist in diagnosing the current activity of a slow-moving, deep-seated ancient landslide using hydro-mechanical modelling. To investigate the processes leading to the initial slope failures, elasto-plastic finite element simulations have been conducted. These simulations aim to replicate the geological processes that the slope has experienced, which are identified as the key contributors to the landslide’s inception. The application of this numerical modelling procedure has proven to be a valuable diagnostic tool, enhancing the understanding of the ancient landslide mechanism and providing insights into its current features, such as the position of the toe, landslide depth, and style of movement.

Source: Computers and Geotechnics

DOI: 10.1016/j.compgeo.2025.107238

Authors: Vito Tagarelli, Francesca Santaloia, Gaetano Elia, Federica Cotecchia

Institutions: Polytechnic University of Bari, Research Institute for Geo-Hydrological Protection, National Research Council

Language: English

Topic: Landslides and related hazards

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,640

Funders: Ministero dell’Istruzione, dell’Università e della Ricerca, Regione Puglia, Ministero dell'Istruzione e del Merito