A model for the analysis of rapid landslide motion across three-dimensional terrain

TLDR

The model extends a prior algorithm using a meshless smoothed‑particle‑hydrodynamics approach, enabling simulation of rapid landslide motion over complex 3‑D terrain with nonhydrostatic, anisotropic stresses, material entrainment, multiple rheological kernels, and efficient operation, and has been validated against laboratory flume experiments. The model accurately predicts the margins of curving rapid flows using a single set of input parameters. A preliminary analysis of a real rock avalanche case history is included, with keywords: landslides, debris flows, rock avalanches, runout analysis, dynamic modelling, numerical methods.

Abstract

A new numerical model for the dynamic analysis of rapid flow slides, debris flows, and avalanches has been developed. The model is an extension of an earlier algorithm and is implemented using a numerical method adapted from smoothed particle hydrodynamics. Its features include (i) the ability to simulate flow across complex three-dimensional terrain; (ii) the ability to allow nonhydrostatic and anisotropic internal stress distributions, coupled with strain changes through frictional relationships; (iii) the ability to simulate material entrainment; (iv) a choice of different rheological kernels, including frictional, plastic, viscous, Bingham, and Voellmy; (v) a meshless solution, which eliminates problems with mesh distortion during long displacements; and (vi) highly efficient and simple operation. The model has been tested by analysing a series of laboratory flume experiments with granular materials, both on straight and curved paths. The model is capable of accurately predicting the margins of various curving flows using a single set of input parameters. A preliminary analysis of a real rock avalanche case history is also included.Key words: landslides, debris flows, rock avalanches, runout analysis, dynamic modelling, numerical methods.