Comprehensive Slope Stability Analysis and Mitigation Strategies Using PLAXIS 2D and GEO5

This study utilized both the limit equilibrium method (LEM) and finite element method (FEM) to analyze slope stability and evaluate the effectiveness of self-driving anchors as a mitigation strategy. LEM, applied through GEO5 using the Mohr–Coulomb model and Bishop’s method for factor of safety (FOS) calculations, assessed the equilibrium of forces along predefined failure surfaces. The initial pseudo-static FOS of 1.44 was below the acceptable threshold of 1.5, indicating instability. With the introduction of self-driving anchors, the pseudo-static FOS increased to 1.53, confirming slope stability. While LEM is efficient for rapid FOS evaluation and reinforcement design, it simplifies soil behavior and assumes failure surfaces, limiting its capacity to model complex interactions. In comparison, FEM, implemented in PLAXIS 2D using plane strain modeling, provided a comprehensive analysis under dynamic loading conditions. The initial dynamic FOS was 0.989, reflecting instability during seismic events. After mitigation, the dynamic FOS improved to 1.474, surpassing the safety threshold of 1.2. FEM captured detailed deformation patterns and stress distributions, identifying critical zones of displacement and stress concentration. Unlike LEM, FEM models stress–strain behavior, dynamic forces, and soil-reinforcement interactions, offering superior insight into complex geotechnical phenomena. By combining LEM’s efficiency with FEM’s detailed analysis, this study demonstrates their complementary value in designing and verifying slope stability solutions.