Finite Element Analysis of Strain Localization Problems for Slope Based on Cosserat Continuum Model

In the present work, the Cosserat micro-polar continuum theory is introduced into the FEM numerical model, which is used to simulate the strain localization phenomena due to strain softening. The numerical studies on progressive failure phenomena, which occur in slope, characterized by strain localization due to strain softening and its development, are numerically simulated by two types of Cosserat continuum finite elements, i.e. u8ω8 and u8ω4 elements, and classical continuum finite element, i.e. u8. It is indicated that both two Cosserat continuum finite elements possess better performance in simulation of strain localization, and the effectiveness in preserving the well-posedness of the localization problems and simulating the progressive failure phenomena characterized by strain localization due to strain softening.