Christophe Bonnard

Identification and mitigation of large landslide risks in Europe : advances in risk assessment

Note: Sols Reference LMS-CHAPTER-2004-001 Record created on 2006-11-09, modified on 2016-08-08

Numerical modelling of the hydrogeological and geomechanical behaviour of a large slope movement: The Triesenberg landslide (Liechtenstein)

Using advanced hydrogeological and geomechanical finite element modelling, it has been possible to model the mechanical behaviour of a large slope movement, the Triesenberg landslide. This slope is located along the Rhine valley in the Principality of Liechtenstein and covers an area of around 5 km 2 , which includes two villages. Pore-water pressure fields calculated by the hydrogeological model were used as input for the geomechanical model. The results obtained through numerical simulation agree fairly well with field measurements of peak velocity, spatial and temporal distribution of velocity, and total displacements. Such results were obtained using a modified Cam-Clay elastoplastic constitutive model for which the required material parameters were obtained through careful geotechnical tests. These finite element models were carried out in two and three dimensions to gradually improve the understanding of the physical phenomena governing the hydrogeological conditions and the movements of the slope.

Hazard and risk assessment of earthquake-induced landslides—case study

Landslides as secondary seismic effects are causing some patterns of soil failure that are often considered among the most destructive ones. In fact, the impact from triggered landslides has sometimes exceeded damage directly related to strong shaking and fault rupture. The objective of this research study is landslide hazard and risk assessment considering different water saturation and earthquake scenarios, for a selected area in a sub-urban hilly part of Skopje—the capital of Macedonia. The final product is represented by digital maps of expected permanent displacements for a defined earthquake scenario, in different water saturation conditions of the instable soil layer. Qualitative landslide risk assessment is performed taking into consideration the exposure map of the habitants and local road of the area. As to the target area, it can be concluded that it has the potential for instability that, under certain scenarios, could result in economic and social damage (vulnerability of individual houses, vulnerability of infrastructure and alike). The results from this study referring to potentially affected population and infrastructure present solid base for preventive mitigation activities for reducing the consequences of geotechnical hazards in Skopje City associated with earthquakes.