Discrete fracture network application to rock slope engineering

The stability of rock slopes is a critical concern in rock engineering applications due to the potential safety hazards and economic repercussions associated with slope failures. Currently, slope stability analysis relies on various analytical and numerical modeling tools leading to a factor of safety. Parameters such as joint strength are assessed through probabilistic analysis. Despite the established effectiveness of these methods, they often lack the capability to provide a volumetric estimation of the failure zone, primarily because the joint frequency parameter is not considered. By incorporating this parameter, it becomes feasible to construct a three-dimensional discrete fracture network (DFN), which offers a more comprehensive representation of the rock slope structure. This study aims to validate the use of DFN in civil engineering applications using two road-cut case studies from Saudi Arabia. Both case studies are analyzed with the conventional methods and DFN approaches, allowing for a comparative assessment of results. DFN models optimize the utilization of statistical data related to discontinuity persistence and spacing, enabling the construction of both deterministic and stochastic fracture networks. The effects of joint spacing and persistence on the factor of safety and volume of failure are examined. Finally, the advantages and limitations of the DFN on rock slope stability are highlighted and areas for improvement and optimization are discussed.