Analysis of EPS-Block geofoam for slope stabilization using finite element method

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the suitability and use of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) in slope construction. EPS geofoam is a lightweight material that has been used in construction at present. Among its uses are as a slope stabilization, to reduce the lateral pressure on retaining structures, as an embankment fill to reduce the settlement, widening embankments and road embankments. This study also used the finite element method for the purpose of analysis of factor of safety before and after the utilized the EPS geofoam for slope stabilization. Thus, four types of EPS geofoam was used in this analysis such as EPS15, EPS19, EPS22, and EPS29. In addition, this analysis included the different water level that will affect the strength of the soil and effect of factor safety also will be analysis. Besides that, the different water level was used at a depth of 0 m, 3 m and 6 m from ground level. For this analysis, the load was applied are 10kN, 15kN and 20kN. Based on this analysis, the used of EPS29 is more practical lightweight material to be used as a slope stabilization where the factor safety that obtained is highest than EPS15, EPS19 and EPS22. Based on this analysis of the influence of water levels on the slope stability that are treated by EPS geofoam, the factor safety is lower at groundwater level of 6m compared to groundwater at 0m.