ABSTRACT
The effects of stabilizing-piles on the stability of slope are predicted by 3D elasto-plastic shear strength reduction FEM. The soil-pile interaction is simulated with the zero-thickness elasto-plastic interface element. The numerical results are compared with those obtained by the Bishop’s simplified method. The position of the pile row has significant influence on the stability of slope, and the pile row needs to be installed in the middle of the slope for the maximum safety factor. By contrast, the Bishop’s simplified method shows that the piles should be installed a little closer to the top of the slope. The shear strength reduction FEM shows that the soil-pile interface shear strength has some influence on the safety factor of the slope reinforced with piles, and that the resisting force by the pile comes mainly from the normal stress in the interface.
