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Slope stability analysis using Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC)
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The 3rd Environmental Resources Management in Global Region IOP Publishing
IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
Slope stability analysis using Universal Distinct Element Code
(UDEC) method
R Roslan1, R C Omar1, R F Putri2, W A Wahab1, I N Z Baharuddin1 and R Jaafar3
1
Institute of Energy Infrastructure, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, 43000 Kajang, Malaysia
2
Geography Department, Universitas Gadja Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
3
Geomapping Technology Sdn Bhd, Malaysia
[email protected], [email protected]
Abstract. Slope stability analysis was conducted using the Universal Distinct Element Code
(UDEC) technique in this research. This technique stimulates the spread of stress waves in the
jointed rock mass owing to dynamic loading caused by the blast. Simulation is a vital component
of the slope stability analysis, as it generates a model called discontinuum capable of simulating
the movement of fragments owing to the burst of production. Besides, the discontinuous codes
used in this analysis may duplicate the entire method of fragmentation of the rock from fracture
to fragment throw. This discontinuous analysis can also simulate joints and porosity attributes in
a rock mass.
1. Introduction
A slope is known as a surface that is higher than one end or side; a falling or rising surface. An earth
slope is a layer of a soil mass that is supported, inclined. The collapse of a ground mass under a slope
can be called as a slip. This requires the entire mass of soil involved in the failure to move down and
out. The slope failure is primarily linked to the gravitational effects and the seed forces inside the soil
[1].
Slope stability refers to a method of calculating and evaluating how much stress can be managed
before a specific slope fails [2]. The strength of the earth slopes should be evaluated quite carefully, as
their failure can contribute to the loss of human lives and the huge financial loss [3]. The calculation of
slope stability for geotechnical engineers remains one of the most critical problems [4]. Slope stability
analysis is carried out in order to assess the safe design of natural or human-made slopes and the balance
conditions. The main purpose of slope evaluation in most engineering applications is to assist to the
secure and economical design of earth dams, embankments, excavations, etc. [3].
Study of slope stability is conducted to assess the appropriate structure of natural and human-made
slopes and the equilibrium circumstances. Slope is the sliding or fall resistance of the inclined surface
to failure. Slope failure may result in death and loss of property. Therefore, the stability of the proposed
slopes must be monitored [1].
A thorough understanding of the various techniques and constraints used to check the stability of
the slopes is required. There are three types of methods used in slope stability analysis, including the
Limit Balance, the Finite Element Method and the Numerical Modelling Approach [1]. In this research,
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The 3rd Environmental Resources Management in Global Region IOP Publishing
IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
discontinuum modelling is one of the numerical methods used to assess the stability of the slope of the
study area.
1.1 Discontinuum Modelling
Discontinuum modelling is capable to simulate the behaviour of the rock mass correctly. This includes
discontinuity response and interactive coupling of slope and hydraulic response to a certain degree
makes it ideal for design analysis of rock slopes as long as appropriate field input data are acquired [5].
Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC) used in the discontinuum modelling was built mainly for
advanced two-dimensional geotechnical study of soil, rock, and structural support [6].
1.2 Application of Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC)
In Rock Mass Model, Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC) can be defined as a discontinue analysis
method where the mechanical behaviour of the discontinuities and also the contact surfaces between the
discrete elements must be represented by a numerical model [6]. In UDEC, the displacements and
rotations of the discrete element blocks must be considered by the discrete element codes. It will identify
new surfaces or contacts automatically during the execution process.
The rock mass model in Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC), is described as a formation of
discrete blocks element that individually influenced by the applied forces or the boundary limitation.
This technique allows the finite displacement and rotations of the discrete blocks, and capable to detect
new contact surfaces automatically during the process of the simulation [6, 7]. This dynamic behaviour
of the numerical analysis is related to the application of the time-stepping algorithm [8].
The time-step size is calculated on the premise that the speeds and accelerations are set in the time-
step. The size of the time-step is sufficiently minute to prevent disturbances propagate between one
discrete element block to another connected element blocks. This solution approach is similar to an
explicit method of finite differences continuum simulation. For rigid blocks, the time-step limitation is
governed under the block mass and stiffness of the interface between block elements. Meanwhile, the
concept of zone size is used for deformable blocks with additional rigidity of the system, which included
the inclusion of intact rock modules and the rigidity of the contacts [8].
1.3 Study Area
The survey area is in Simpang Pulai, Perak, situated at 4°31'44.15"N latitude and 101°9'21.37"E as can
be seen in Figure 2. Figure 3 shows the geology maps that shows the Kinta Limestone. This area has
huge limestone bodies that are massively fractured and jointed.
Figure 1. Site location of survey works for comprehensive study at Simpang Pulai, Perak
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IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
Figure 2. Geological map of the site area
2. Methodology
2.1 Conceptual Development of Rock Mass Model
The development of the rock mass model that can be developed into three (3) different perspectives; the
joints of the rock mass model, the joint-force displacement model and the constitutive model [9]. Figure
3 shows the basic concept of rock mass modelling.
Joint
Constitutive Rock Mass
Model Model
Joint
Model
Figure 3. Basic concept of rock mass modelling.
These three components are important in identifying the attributes of the rock mass and also the
fragmentation of the discrete blocks. This study also indicated the difference between a constitutive
model and joint model. The joint model controls the behaviour of the rock mass joints while the
constitutive model governs the behaviour of the intact rock with joints. The effects of these models on
rock mass are [9]:
3
The 3rd Environmental Resources Management in Global Region IOP Publishing
IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
i. The rock mass will fail in a flexible behaviour under high confinement,
ii. The rock mass will fail in a brittle manner under low confinement,
iii. The elastic waves are transmitted without any distortion.
2.2 Fully Dynamic Simulation of Rock Mass Model
The importance of initial state conditions of the rock mass model has been discussed by (Raffaldi, M. J.
et al. [9]. The development of the static model is very important before dynamic loadings. The study
explained the steps required to develop a static numerical model as shown in Figure 4:
Develop model Perform an alteration to
Solve for the solution
geometry the model
Establish initial Evaluate the results and
Discretize the model equilibrium in the revise model if
model necessary
Assign constitutive Apply appropriate
models and material boundary and initial
properties conditions
Figure 4. Basic steps to develop a static numerical model.
As the static numerical model already completed, several further steps need to be considered to
produce a dynamic numerical model as can be seen in Figure 5:
Identify the wave
transmission Apply dynamic loading
competency
Apply mechanical Apply dynamic
damping boundary conditions
Figure 5. Basic steps to develop a dynamic numerical model.
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IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
2.3 Evaluation of Wave Transmission
The wave transmission within the simulated model must be accurately achieved to ensure numerical
accuracy. This matter can be solved by assigning all the element sizes which are small enough
concerning the wavelength of the input wave [9].
2.4 Attenuation of Blast Induced Vibration (Mechanical Damping)
The behaviour of blast-induced vibration is attenuated over distance. The reduction of blast magnitude
over distance is influenced by two factors consist of material damping and geometrical spreading [10].
The damping ratio is declared as an important parameter in numerical modelling [9].
The study described the mechanical damping as a reduction of wave amplitude due to the energy
dissipation when the wave propagates through matter. The damping ratio in numerical analysis is really
important to prevent the oscillation of waves through rock mass without any attenuation which can affect
the result of the numerical analysis.
2.5 Application of Dynamic Boundary Conditions
The condition of the dynamic boundary is an important aspect to consider as it involved the behavior of
the waves at the artificial boundaries. In a static analysis, the stress boundary condition can be assigned
at a distance where the waves are allowed to propagate back to virtually undisturbed condition.
Nevertheless, in dynamic analysis, this condition boundaries cause the propagation of the waves to be
reversed back into the model.
The size of the dynamic numerical model will be larger due to the increasing distance between the
boundaries that acted as a material damping for energy dissipation and the region of interest. Hence, it
is necessary for geomechanical modelling to develop artificial boundaries which purposely to attenuate
the propagation and reflection of waves [9].
2.6 Application of Dynamic Loading
Dynamic loading in Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC) or any other numerical approach is
related to the transient load conditions. The dynamic loadings in numerical simulation can be transient
stress, displacement or velocity which assigned at the selected boundary of the model [9].
For a problem related to the stability of the excavation due to dynamic loadings from the nearby
blasting, a stress time-history which showing the borehole pressure from a detonating might be
considered to an internal boundary within the simulated model [9].
3. Results and Analysis
3.1 Effect of Blast Vibration on Slope Stability
Quarry slope stability can be managed by structure, rock mass strength, or both. Berm/ inter amp heights
and rock strengths will control rock mass failure. The strength and structure of rock mass are key factors
that influence overall stability, especially in large quarry or open pits. Overall stability is always checked
through the rock mass for the possibility of deep-seated failure, and the slice method is typically the
preferred device. It is becoming more popular to apply numerical analyses; however, more data is needed
than the simpler methods of limiting equilibrium and calibration of input parameters. Calibration is
possible only in a quarry that has been in operation for some time and has a background of recorded
failures and movement conditions. Because of this, the use of computational methods is not common in
early design phases. Maximum equilibrium slope stability analyses will be performed when simple
failure modes are required, as well as the more sophisticated numerical methods. Study of this analysis
using separate methods of elements (UDEC) is carried out when the strength of the rock mass influences
the stability. The quarry has an average angle of slope between 28º to 40º and a height of 179 meters
from sea level with berm or an inter-ramp angle between 35º to 45º. The main rock in this quarry domain
are limestone and dolomite. Figure 6 show the geometry of the wall and Figure 7 shows the cross section
of the wall (A-B).
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IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
Boundary Wall
A B
Figure 6. The geometry of the wall.
A B
Figure 7. The cross section of the wall (A-B)
Discontinuities have been expressly implemented in the UDEC model to provide greater freedom of
movement. The assumed spacing reflects a compromise between the real spacing and computational
requirements; however, it has maintained their relative consistency and the overall aspect ratio of blocks.
Numerical models containing safety estimation factor are obtained by simultaneously decreasing the
intensity of both the material and joint properties when tracking the movement of selected points on the
wall by UDEC modelling. The properties obtained by downgrading are gained by dividing by a metric
the stiffness and the friction angle tangent for all materials and joints. Although wall movements are
tracked by UDEC modelling, the model is then permitted to balance downgraded properties and the
process is continued until conditions of equilibrium can no longer be achieved. A plot of the
displacements tracked against the factor of downgrading shows where the wall is unstable. The
magnitude of the downgrading factor at the point of instability can be demonstrated as a safety factor.
In this study, the stabilization of wall/slope using the UDEC model was analyzed based on the
combination of discontinuity survey at Area 6 and Area 7 as shown in Figure 8. The parameters of rock
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IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
strength in the UDEC modelling was referred on Hoek-Brown Classification and Criterion, Mohr –
Coulomb Fit as well as rock mass parameters as shown in Table 1.
UDEC model area
for slope stability
analysis
Area 6
Area 7 Area 7
Area 6
Area 7
Figure 8. Illustration of UDEC model area for slope stability analysis
Table 1. The parameters of rock strength
Hoek-Brown Classification
Intact Uniaxial Compressive Strength 69.5 MPa
Geological Strength Index for rock mass, GSI 65
Hoek-Brown constant for intact rock pieces, mi 9
Disturbance factor 1
Hoek-Brown Criterion
Hoek-Brown constant for rock mass, mb 0.739
Hoek-Brown constant, s 0.0029
Hoek-Brown constant, a 0.502
Mohr-Coulomb Fit
Cohesion 2.709 MPa
Friction Angle 23.90 deg
Rock Mass Parameters
Tensile Strength -0.275 MPa
Uniaxial Compressive Strength 3.718 MPa
Global Strength 8.328 MPa
Modulus of Deformation 9884.68 MPa
Spacing 12 m
Figure 9 shows no sign of rock mass disruption, suggesting that the slope is stable. It means that, for
the most part, the wall’s action is straight with some movement on the vertical joint set in the limestone.
In the slope displacement plot versus the downgrading element, this is evident. Rock mass loss is a result
of a factor of 2.1 downgrading the strength parameters. At the top of the slope, there is a pocket of stress
cracks. Figure 10 displays vectors of velocity and indicators of plastics in the unstable area. The
downgrading factor versus the displacement plot in Figure 10 clearly shows the point at which red colour
indicates instability. Figure 11 shows the UDEC modelling result of displacement effect due to
vibration-induced based on time/year.
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The 3rd Environmental Resources Management in Global Region IOP Publishing
IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
Plastic Boundary
Figure 9. Indicator of the plastic boundary (Please note, the
analysis above represents the analysis above the upper part of
quarry door/cave)
Plastic Boundary
Figure 10. Indicator of velocity vectors and plastic boundary at the
start of instability (RED COLOR) Please note, the analysis above
represent the analysis above the upper part of quarry door/cave)
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IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
Figure 11. Shows the UDEC modelling result of the displacement effect due to
vibration induced based on time/year.
The results of critical failure surface analysis through the rock mass shown by the UDEC model show
that the wall is relatively stable, and the safety factor expected to be less than 2.2. The indicated moderate
stability with respect to deep-seated failure modes can be explained by the fact that slope toe is situated
in the fracture zone, in other words, to the fact that the failure mechanism, in this case, is a failure by
rock mass, except for release structures at the top of the cave door. Figure 12 shows the results of the
final analysis of the UDEC. From the UDEC modelling, the plastic indicators at the lower part of the
wedge and toppling “columns” do not represent rotational slip but are simply an indication of a “kink”
band. This band is where the columns are mounted and therefore the rock is damaged by crushing.
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IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
Figure 12. Shows the results of the final UDEC analysis, Velocity
contours showing crest failure (indicated by red colour)
4. Conclusion
In this study, Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC) method was applied to analyze the slope stability
of the study area. This method stimulates the stress wave propagation in a jointed rock mass due to
dynamic loadings induced by blasting. The stabilization of the wall/slope using the UDEC model was
analyzed based on the combination of the discontinuity survey at Area 6 and Area 7 of the study area.
The results of the study of critical failures by rock mass shown by UDEC model demonstrate that the
wall is moderately stable, and that the safety factor is estimated to be less than 2.2. The medium stability
indicated for deep-seated failure modes is that the failure mechanism, in this case, because the failure
mechanism, in this situation, is failure by rock mass, except for the trigger structures at the top of the
slope or at the top of the cave entrance. From the UDEC modelling results, it has been shown that the
slope is stable without any suggestion of damage to the rock mass. Failure by rock mass resulted from
the reduction of the intensity parameters by a factor of 2.1. There is a stress cracks zone at the top of the
slope. As a conclusion, discontinuous modelling using Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC)
method is proficient to analyze the slope stability of the study area. The discontinuous codes used in this
analysis can duplicate the whole process of rock fragmentation from fracture to fragment throw. This
discontinuous analysis also can simulate joints and porosity attributes in a rock mass.
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The 3rd Environmental Resources Management in Global Region IOP Publishing
IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science 451 (2020) 012081 doi:10.1088/1755-1315/451/1/012081
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