Seismic stability analysis of slope reinforced with a row of piles

• Seismic stability of piled slope is solved within framework of pseudo-static approach.
• A procedure integrated limit analysis with strength reduction technique is presented.
• Analytical formulas are derived to calculate the lateral seismic forces on piles.
• Analytical solutions are validated by numerical limit analysis and elasto-plastic FEM.
• Effect of multi-parameters on limit seismic forces are systematically investigated.

In this paper, the seismic stability of a slope reinforced with a row of piles is analyzed within the framework of the pseudo-static approach. Calculations are conducted by using a technique integrated the kinematic theorem of limit analysis with strength reduction concept. The log-spiral failure surface is considered, analytical expressions are derived that enable one to readily calculate the yield acceleration coefficient for the slope subjected to seismic loading, and the lateral stabilizing force provided by piles which is required to increase the slope safety factor to a design value. Numerical results for typical example are presented and the reasonableness of the procedure is verified. Furthermore, discussions are made in order to illustrate the influence of horizontal seismic coefficients on the lateral stabilizing forces and the optimal position of the pile in seismic area.