Successes and challenges in modelling sensitive clay landslides using a large deformation finite element method

The process of large-scale landslides in sensitive clays (e.g., progressive formation of failure planes, retrogression and runout) cannot be analyzed using the commonly used limit equilibrium methods for slope stability analysis. It cannot also be analyzed using typical Lagrangian-based finite element methods because of significant mesh distortion. The Eulerian-based finite element methods can handle large deformations. However, several factors should be properly incorporated into the Eulerian analysis, including developing initial stress conditions, seepage, strain softening, strain rate and strain localization. Under the supervision of the author, a research team at Memorial University developed numerical techniques incorporating these factors and simulated landslides in sensitive clay. This paper presents the similarities and differences between the Lagrangian- and Eulerian-based finite element simulations of landslides. Some successes and challenges encountered in developing numerical models are also presented.