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INSTRUCTORS:
James McKelvey
Siwadol Dejphumee
Arda Sahin
Mirna Kassem
Blaine Leonard
Course Length: 1 hour
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Geo-Congress 2026.
Simplified Method for Consideration of Soil Arching in 2D Limit Equilibrium Slope Stability Analyses of Pile-Stabilized Embankments (13 minutes)
This presentation introduces a simplified approach to incorporate soil arching effects into two-dimensional limit equilibrium slope stability analyses for pile-stabilized embankments. Traditional methods often neglect soil arching, leading to conservative or inaccurate estimates of stability. The study integrates results from numerical modeling and classical arching theories to quantify load transfer between soil and piles. A decoupled analysis approach is used, combining p-y analysis for pile resistance with slope stability software. Case study validation demonstrates how arching significantly increases the factor of safety compared to analyses that ignore it. Results indicate that neglecting soil arching can underestimate system performance and lead to overdesign. The proposed method offers a practical alternative for engineers without access to advanced 3D modeling tools.
Evaluation of Slope Stability of Tailings Storage Facility under Static and Seismic Conditions (12 minutes)
This presentation evaluates the slope stability of a tailings storage facility (TSF) under both static and seismic loading conditions. The study incorporates extensive site characterization, including electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), boreholes, and seismic testing. These investigations help identify perched groundwater conditions and assess soil properties. Stability analyses were performed for global and shallow failure modes using both static and pseudo-static approaches. Results show high factors of safety under static conditions, indicating low failure probability. However, seismic loading introduces potential risks, with reduced safety factors and measurable displacements. The findings highlight the importance of considering updated seismic hazard data in TSF design and evaluation.
Site Characterization for Selected Liquefaction Case History Sites from February 6, 2023, Türkiye-Kahramanmaras Earthquakes (10 minutes)
This presentation focuses on site characterization and liquefaction assessment following the 2023 Türkiye-Kahramanmaras earthquakes. The study compiles field data from multiple sites, including seismic CPTs, boreholes, and geophysical surveys. These earthquakes, with magnitudes 7.8 and 7.7, caused widespread damage and significant ground failures. Researchers evaluated liquefaction triggering using both legacy empirical models and newer probabilistic approaches. Results highlight differences between models, particularly in predicting surface manifestation. The study also emphasizes the role of site conditions, such as proximity to rivers and groundwater levels. These case histories provide valuable data for improving future liquefaction prediction models.
The Influence of Storm Time Series Characteristics on Landslide Triggering Within a Watershed in Utuado, Puerto Rico (12 minutes)
This presentation investigates how storm characteristics, particularly rainfall intensity and duration, influence landslide triggering in Puerto Rico. A physics-based modeling framework integrates hydrological processes with slope stability analysis. The study uses both real and synthetic storm scenarios to evaluate landslide behavior across a watershed. Results show that longer-duration storms can produce more failures than short, intense storms due to increased infiltration. The interaction between surface runoff and subsurface flow plays a critical role in pore pressure generation. The model also captures different failure mechanisms, including shallow and deep-seated landslides. Findings contribute to improved hazard prediction and resilience planning in landslide-prone regions.
The Utah Thistle Landslide of 1983: A Historical Perspective (17 minutes)
This presentation provides a comprehensive historical analysis of the 1983 Thistle landslide in Utah, one of the most significant landslides in U.S. history. The event was triggered by prolonged wet conditions and involved the reactivation of an ancient landslide mass. The slide caused major infrastructure disruption, including blocking highways, railroads, and damming a river. Detailed investigations revealed complex geological conditions and multiple contributing factors, including toe erosion and groundwater effects. The presentation also examines legal disputes that followed, highlighting challenges in determining causation and liability. Despite extensive studies, no single consensus explanation was reached. The case underscores the complexity of landslide processes and the importance of historical context in geotechnical engineering.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain the role of soil arching in improving slope stability of pile-supported embankments.
- Describe the factors influencing slope stability of tailings storage facilities under static and seismic conditions.
- Identify key factors influencing liquefaction potential based on field case histories.
- Discuss how rainfall intensity and duration influence landslide initiation mechanisms.
- Describe the key causes and impacts of the 1983 Thistle landslide.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Geotechnical Engineer
- Civil Engineers (Geotechnical/Foundations focus)
- Engineering Geologists
- Infrastructure & Transportation Engineers
- Construction Engineers and Managers
- Researchers, Faculty, and Students in Geotechnics
How to Earn your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short on-line post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 365 days of the course purchase.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]