An integrated maximum safe slope angle analysis approach based on probabilistic kinematic and block theory for discontinuity-controlled rock slope instabilities: a transportation corridor case

Discontinuity-controlled rock slope instability analysis is an important issue in slope engineering. In this study, an integrated approach based on probabilistic kinematic and block theory is proposed to calculate maximum safe slope angle (MSSA). It incorporates the varieties of discontinuity orientation, friction angle and block geometric shapes. It can provide a scientific MSSA value for rock slope engineering. The proposed integrated approach is applied to an important engineering slope. First, the probabilistic kinematic and block theory analyses are separately used to obtain MSSA. Then the mean value of the two calculations is taken as suggested MSSA of the slope, and suggested MSSA is 60.22°. The approach proposed in the paper integrates kinematic and block theory, and fully considers the variability of orientation and shear strength of discontinuity, and the approach is more objective. In addition, the persistence of discontinuities and the identification of in-situ blocks will be a valuable work in the future.