ABSTRACT
This study investigates the influence of stress-induced anisotropy on the stability of infinite slopes through numerical simulations. To include the effect of stress anisotropy, shear strength parameters are modified based on experimental validation using triaxial tests. A soil element near the slope face, subjected to compressive stress conditions, is analyzed using Abaqus to simulate anisotropic behavior. The numerical model is validated using anisotropically consolidated undrained (ACU) triaxial tests. Results indicate a 20% reduction in peak deviatoric stress and a decrease of 4-5° in friction angle under anisotropic conditions, consistent with numerical predictions. These reduced shear strength parameters were then applied to a real infinite slope case (Kavalappara, Kerala). The factor of safety (FOS) dropped from 1.125 under isotropic conditions to 1.042 with anisotropy, highlighting the significant impact of stress anisotropy on slope stability. The study provides a preliminary framework to assess anisotropy effects on slope performance.
