Stability analysis of slopes with general nonlinear failure criterion

The upper bound method of limit analysis of perfect plasticity is applied to stability problems of slopes with a general nonlinear failure criterion. Based on the upper bound method, a numerical procedure is suggested, which converts the complex system of differential equations to an initial value problem. Using this numerical procedure, an effective numerical method, called the inverse method, suitable for the solution of slope stability problems in soil mechanics with a general nonlinear failure criterion, is presented. A general nonlinear failure criterion for soils is also suggested, from which the effects of nonlinear failure parameters on the stability of slopes are discussed.