Kennard (1994) suggests that limit-state stability analysis using
effective stresses predicted on pore pressure dissipation and consolidation
requires the discipline of:
- conservative shear strength parameters, cand;
- appropriate assumptions with respect to pore pressure;
- rigorous analysis of realistic slip surfaces, both circular and non-circular;
- design revision when performance data from the construction stage
is available;
- realistic target factors of safety;
- the use of appropriate instrumentation (see Chapter 7).
An interesting comparison of conventional limit-equilibrium analysis and
numerical analysis for a simplified enbankment profile has been published
in Nandi, Dutta and Roychowdhury (2005). Vaughan, Kovacevic and
Ridley (2002) have published an interesting perspective on the long-term
issue of the effect of climate change on embankment stability.
2.7.2 Stress analysis, hydraulic fracturing and cracking
(a) Stress analysis
The application of sophisticated mathematical modelling techniques
to embankment dam stress analysis is inhibited by difficulties occasioned
by non-uniformity of the fill materials and by representation of their
88 EMBANKMENT DAM ENGINEERING
Fig. 2.16 Stability analysis (Bishop semi-rigorous method): curves of func-
tionmcos[1(tantan)/F]
