Work

Evaluating LEM, FEM, and DFN approaches for rock slope stability across GSI ranges for open pit mine

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Rock slope stability is a crucial factor in ensuring the safe and economic operation of open-pit mines, particularly in hard-rock conditions such as those found in iron ore deposits. Traditional methods such as the Limit Equilibrium method (LEM) remain widely applied, yet advances in numerical and discontinuum modeling now allow more detailed analyses using the Finite Element Method (FEM) and Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) techniques. This paper presents a comparative assessment of LEM, FEM, and DFN approaches applied to an open-pit mine in the central India region for a wide range of GSI. The geological, structural, and geotechnical data from the extensive site investigation and laboratory tests were used to numerically assess the stability of the pit slope in five excavation stages using all three methods. The LEM approach provided a factor of safety based on critical slip surfaces, while the FEM simulation offered insights into stress distribution and failure mechanisms. The DFN approach captured the role of discontinuity geometry and persistence in controlling kinematic block instabilities. The results indicate that although the LEM approach remains efficient for preliminary stability evaluation, the FEM approach provides a more realistic representation of rock mass behavior under complex loading, and the DFN modeling offers unique insights into structurally controlled failures not captured by continuum methods.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-62662-5

Authors: Suryajyoti Nanda, Shantanu Patel

Institution: Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur

Language: English

Topic: Geotechnical Engineering and Analysis

Subfield: Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690

Funder: Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur