Optimized Slope Stability Assessment Using an Intuitionistic Fuzzy MCDM Approach for LEM Model Selection

초록

Slope failures can have devastating consequences for both lives and property. Therefore, accurate and reliable slope stability assessments are crucial. Various methods have been developed to evaluate slope stability in terms of the factor of safety, with the Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM) being the most widely used despite its inherent limitations. Given the numerous variants of LEM, selecting the most suitable approach for a specific site remains a significant challenge for geotechnical engineers. This study introduces a novel intuitionistic fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach to determine the most appropriate LEM-based model for slope stability analysis in three excavated lateritic soil slopes. Soil samples were collected and subjected to laboratory testing to determine their material properties. Slope stability analyses were conducted using GeoStudio software, while Plaxis 2D, a numerical modelling tool, was also employed. The benefit and cost criteria were formulated based on the relationships between LEM and numerical analysis, and expert opinions were incorporated to assess the importance of these criteria. The analysis results indicate that for Locations 1 and 3, the Janbu method is the most suitable for evaluating slope stability. In contrast, the Bishop method is predominantly supported by the MCDM approach as the most appropriate for Location 2. Sensitivity analysis further confirmed the consistency and reliability of the proposed MCDM methodology.

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