Abstract:
Temporary excavations in soft clay soils are prevalent across Canada to enable efficient construction and infrastructure placement. Vertical or near-vertical cuts can be safely made in low-hydraulic conductivity plastic soils in the short term; however, these steeper slopes may eventually slump due to stress changes and progressive yielding. This case study examines two slopes that slumped during winter (not operations) in a borrow pit. A preliminary finite element model and parametric study is used to estimate the time to failure for various slope geometries, considering the specific site characteristics. The paper aims to improve material and borrow geometry understanding for future excavations. This proactive approach enables better planning and management of similar borrow pits, ultimately enhancing excavation efficiency, long-term planning, and safety.
Presenter:
Bryce Marcotte | SRK Consulting, Canada
Click here to view other presentations at this event.
