Static and dynamic analysis on slope stability using a DFN-DEM approach on the right abutment of the Karun 4 dam

Uncertainty in input fracture geometric parameters during analysis of the stability of jointed rock slopes is inevitable and therefore the stochastic discrete fracture network (DFN) — distinct element method (DEM) is an efficient modeling tool. In this research, potentially unstable conditions are detected in the right abutment of the Karun 4 dam and downstream of the dam body as a case study. Two extreme states with small and relatively large block sizes are selected and a series of numerical DEM models are generated using a number of validated DFN models. Stability of the rock slope is assessed in both static and dynamic loading states. Based on the design basis earthquake (DBE) and maximum credible earthquake (MCE) expected in the dam site, histories of seismic waves are applied to analyze the stability of the slope in dynamic earthquake conditions. The results indicate that a MCE is likely to trigger sliding of rock blocks on the rock slope major joint. Furthermore, the dynamic analysis also shows a local block failure by the DBE, which can consequently lead to slope instability over the long term. According to the seismic behavior of the two models, larger blocks are prone to greater instability and are less safe against earthquakes.