Finite Element Method-Based Analysis of an Unsaturated Soil Slope Subjected to Rainfall Infiltration

This study presents results from the finite-element analysis of a well-instrumented and well-monitored 11-m-high cut slope in Zaoyang, Hubei, China, subjected to rainfall infiltration. This analysis requires simultaneously computation of the deformation and the groundwater flow with time-dependent boundary conditions (fully coupled flow-deformation analysis). Based on the available data, the hydraulic parameters required for the applied Van Genuchten models were estimated. The agreement achieved in pore-water pressures and groundwater levels between measurement and analysis using the FEM can be considered very reasonable for the full time period monitored.