Stability evolution and failure mechanism of debris slope under seismic load
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study focuses on typical debris slopes in Qambo City, Tibet. An indoor model with typical debris slope geomorphological features was established. Through shaking table tests and numerical simulations, the dynamic response characteristics and instability evolution mechanisms under seismic load were investigated. The results reveal significant surficial effects and elevation amplification in peak ground acceleration (PGA) and peak ground displacement (PGD) responses, with pronounced acceleration amplification in the convex mid-upper slope regions. The extent of the amplified acceleration zone increases with higher amplitudes of seismic load. Dynamic earth pressure responses indicate that under low-amplitude vibrations, the slope primarily undergoes compaction (positive pressure), exhibiting elastic behavior. In contrast, under high-amplitude vibrations, loosening (negative pressure) dominates, leading to increased internal shear strain, structural stiffness degradation, reduced natural frequency, and accelerated energy accumulation, ultimately triggering instability. When the seismic wave frequency approaches the slope’s natural frequency, resonance effects are induced, forming extensive plastic zones and causing damage to propagate from the mid-slope toward the crest and lateral boundaries. Slope failure primarily originates in the geometrically abrupt mid-upper regions, with slip surfaces typically developing in the convex mid-slope rather than at the toe. The experiments and simulations further demonstrate a four-stage evolution process under seismic loading: particle sliding, crack initiation, crack propagation, and overall instability. This culminates in the formation of a continuous shear slip zone, characterized by a combined tensile-shear failure mode. These findings provide a theoretical basis for understanding landslide development in seismic zones, improving seismic design methodologies, and enhancing disaster resilience for mountainous infrastructure.
Source: Results in Engineering
Institutions: Shenzhen University, Lanzhou University
Language: English
Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,940
OpenAlex ID: W4416920925