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Modeling the evolution of natural cliffs subject to weathering. 2, Discrete element approach

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Utili, S. and Crosta, G. B.. (2011) Modeling the evolution of natural cliffs subject to weathering. 2, Discrete element approach. Journal of Geophysical Research, Vol.116 (No.F1). Article: F01017. ISSN 0148-0227

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2009JF001559

Abstract

The evolution of slopes subjected to weathering has been modeled by assuming Mohr-Coulomb behavior and by using a numerical approach based on the discrete element method (DEM). According to this method, soil and/or rock are represented by an assembly of bonded particles. Particle bonds are subject to progressive weakening, and so the material weathering and removal processes are modeled. Slope instability and material movement follow the decrease of material strength in space and time with the only assumption concerning the weathering distribution within the slope. First, the case of cliffs subject to strong erosion (weathering-limited conditions) and uniform weathering was studied to compare the results of the DEM approach with the limit analysis approach. Second, transport-limited slopes subject to nonuniform slope weathering were studied. Results have been compared with experimental data and other geomorphologic models from the literature (Fisher-Lehmann and Bakker–Le Heux). The flux of material from the slope is modeled assuming degradation both in space and time.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	Q Science > QA Mathematics Q Science > QE Geology T Technology > TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General)
Divisions:	Faculty of Science > Engineering
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Weathering -- Mathematical models, Landslides -- Mathematical models, Slopes (Physical geography) -- Mathematical models, Cliffs -- Mathematical models
Journal or Publication Title:	Journal of Geophysical Research
Publisher:	American Geophysical Union
ISSN:	0148-0227
Date:	10 March 2011
Volume:	Vol.116
Number:	No.F1
Number of Pages:	17
Page Range:	Article: F01017
Identification Number:	10.1029/2009JF001559
Status:	Peer Reviewed
Publication Status:	Published
Access rights to Published version:	Restricted or Subscription Access
Version or Related Resource:	This item was also presented at the European Geosciences Union General Assembly 2009, Vienna, Austria, Apr 19-24, 2009.
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URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/40550