Automation of Slope Stability Calculations A comparison between Conventional Slope/w Analysis and Plaxis Analysis Controlled by Python code

Abstract

This project aims to develop and evaluate an automated method for undrained slope stability investigations, offering a modern approach to examining slope stability more efficiently over a larger area in less time. A comparison is made between the traditional limit equilibrium analysis using Slope/w and the finite element method based slope stability analysis using Plaxis. The objective is to create comparable geotechnical models in both programs and develop a Python code to automate the modelling in Plaxis to see the variance in safety factors in already investigated areas. The research combines quantitative methods by collecting previously conducted slope stability investigations in the Göta River investigation and qualitative methods through interpretations and assumptions. The conclusions highlight the comparison between manual slope stability analysis using Slope/w and Plaxis with the automated Plaxis analysis. While the project does not aim to replicate reality, it successfully develops and tests a Python code for automating slope stability analysis in Plaxis. The differences between Slope/w and Plaxis lie in their determination of the critical slip surface and calculation of the safety factor, with Plaxis offering more comprehensive capabilities. Safety factors obtained from the analyses serve as a reference point for comparison and indicate that Slope/w tends to calculate higher safety factors compared to Plaxis. The automation of Plaxis analysis fulfills the objective of enabling efficient analysis of multiple sections and investigating future scenarios. The developed code is specific to the selected main sections and requires adjustments for other slope sections. Further development can focus on enhancing code flexibility and making it less sensitive to file formatting. The project concludes that Plaxis can be controlled through Python code, presenting limitless possibilities for future applications. In summary, this project provides a valuable contribution to slope stability analysis methods, demonstrating the potential of automation while acknowledging the limitations and customization required. Plaxis offers advantages in handling complex cases and soil response, while Slope/w remains practical for combined analyses and intuitive material modelling. The project opens avenues for further research and improvement, highlighting the endless possibilities offered by controlling Plaxis through Python code.