Centrifuge model test study on deformation and failure of slope under water variation and vertical loading conditions

The slopes near the reservoirs usually experience frequent variations of water level. Simultaneously, the slopes are often applied with various loading. These factors would cause significant deformation of slopes, which may have a remarkable effect on the safety of the slopes. Thus, it is of great significance to reasonably investigate the deformation and failure of slopes induced by the coupling application of water variation and vertical loading. A centrifuge model test was conducted on a slope model made of clay and sand under water variation and vertical loading conditions. The slope exhibited significant deformation and failed eventually during the vertical loading process. The slip surface only appeared in the layer of sand and developed from the top to the lower part. Water variation and vertical loading induced significant deformation localization around the area where the slip surface appeared subsequently, and can be considered the cause to the slope failure.