Slope failure simulations with MPM

The simulation of slope failures, including both failure initiation and development, has been modelled using the material point method. By utilising a constitutive model which encompasses, in a simplified manner, both pre- and post-failure behaviour, the majority of types of geotechnical slope failure can be observed in the simulations. This is a step towards being able to better quantify the consequences of slope failures and thereby to a better quantification of risk. Numerical case studies involving various slope angles, heterogeneity and rainfall induced slope failures are presented to demonstrate the ability of the method to simulate commonly observed failure modes. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.