Reinforced steep slopes definition and formulation of the problem

5 Reinforced steep slopes definition and formulation of the problem 

For a given type of sod, it is possible to define a limiting angle of inclination of the slope, iSiim, which represents the maximum value that can be built for an unreinforced slope. 

For dry cohensionless material, the limit angle is equal to the angle of internal friction of the soil (Eq. [15.11])  

For the case of vertical face, coefficient K equals the active thrust coefficient K for values of the angle between 0 and 90 degree, K assumes values between 0 and K.  

Additional forces required for equilibrium of a steep slope, with an adequate safety margin with respect to any potential failure mechanism, can be determined by a limit equilibrium analysis. It consists of considering possible failure surfaces and comparing, for each of them, the active forces with the resisting forces. The FS is the ratio between the maximum shear force provided by the soil just before failure and the shear force developed on the considered surface. A thorough research results 

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