Reduction of Slope Failure Hazards: An Analysis of the Khosr River Slope in Mosul, Iraq, Utilizing Geo-Studio Programs.

Abstract

In this study, the stability of the slope close to the Khosr River in Mosul, Iraq, is examined. Three different layers make up the slope: sandstone at the bottom, highly malleable clay (CH) in the middle, and gravel, sand, and clay at the top. Concerns regarding possible failure, which may cause large material and human losses, have been raised by the growing construction of multi-story buildings at the top of the slope. The SLOPE/W, SIGMA/W, and SEEP/W modules of the Geo-Studio 2012 program were used to perform a two-dimensional (2D) numerical analysis. The stability of the slope was investigated under a number of circumstances, such as increasing groundwater levels (4 to 10 m), rainfall (10 and 30 mm/day for up to 60 days), and external loads (250, 350, 450, and 500 kPa). The slope's initial factor of safety (FOS) ranges from 3.935 to 4.03, making it stable under typical circumstances. But when exposed to external stresses, more rainfall, and higher groundwater levels, the FOS dramatically drops. When a 500 kPa external load was applied, for example, the FOS decreased by up to 71.9%, and when a 100 kPa load and a 4 m water table were combined, the FOS decreased by more than 70%. The study assessed the efficacy of three reinforcement treatments—anchors, micropiles, and a retaining wall—to reduce the chance of failure. The outcomes demonstrated how well these actions improve stability. When positioned at a 25-degree angle, anchors raised the FOS by 24.1% to 196.8%. Three meters below the surface, micro-piles increased the FOS by 37.4% to 164.2%. The most successful option was a retaining wall, which increased the FOS by 178.5% and restored stability in critical conditions. It was 10 meters high and 6.5 meters wide at the foundation. The results show how important it is to have adequate drainage systems and slope reinforcement in order to protect the growing residential area.