Stability of vertical corner cuts

Outlined are the analytical results of a 3–D slope stability method which is based on the variational limit–equilibrium approach. Also outlined is a numerical procedure utilizing these results. Limitations of the variational analysis and of the numerical procedure performance are discussed. Numerical study of the 3–D stability of homogeneous vertical corner cuts with variable angle, considering pore–pressure, is conducted. The results of this study are condensed into design charts enabling one to determine the factor of safety as well as the volume of a potentially sliding mass. Comparison of the variational results with published results obtained from a limitanalysis indicates the former ones to be more critical.