Finite element method for stability analysis with its application to the limit load of soil mass

In this paper, finite element method for stability analysis is applied to evaluate the limit load of soil mass. Based on the finite element stress-strain analysis, the limit load is determined through searching the critical slip surface and increasing external loading until the safety factor of the critical slip surface reaching 1. The author indicates that the results obtained by the stability assessment with FEM are the correct bearing capacity of soil mass in the state of limit equilibrium. The examples show the method is effective and reasonable, and this method is extended to evaluate limit load of slopes. The author also studies the relations of bearing capacity of slopes with the self-weight of soil and the friction angle.