Reliability analysis of slopes using fuzzy sets theory

The stability assessment of slopes is difficult because of many uncertainties. Possibilistic approach using fuzzy sets allows for a logical and systematic analysis of the uncertainties. In this paper an attempt has been made to present a new approach for the stability analysis of slopes incorporating fuzzy uncertainty. Uncertain parameters are expressed as fuzzy sets. A methodology has been presented in the study to process the fuzzy uncertainties in a slope reliability analysis. Fuzzy uncertainty is incorporated in the estimated probability of failure. A numerical example of the finite earth slope problem illustrates the methodology. The approach allows assessment of the likelihood that a particular slope section will have a higher failure probability than the failure probability of the 'critical' deterministic failure surface. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.