Energy-Based Newmark Method for earthquake-induced slope displacements

Nonlinear numerical analyses are conducted wherein the Newmark-type slope model is shaken underneath by propagating SH wave. Wave energy as the difference between upward and downward SH wave is confirmed to contribute to slope sliding together with other associated energies. Residual slope displacements δr are uniquely evaluated from the wave energy despite the difference in earthquake waves, indicating that δr can be readily obtained with no need of acceleration time-histories. Evaluation procedure has been developed by using a set of the nonlinear analysis and empirical formulas on earthquake wave energies. An example study for slope displacements of varying hypocenter distances during a M6.8 earthquake has shown basic consistency with a corresponding earthquake-induced behavior of road embankments. •Energy-Based Newmark Method for slope failure developed for simplified seismic design.•Slope displacements can be evaluated directly from wave energy with no need of design motion.•Seamlessly evaluate not only possibility of sliding but also slope displacement.•Wave energy is determined by empirical formulas based on vertical array strong motion data.•Example study indicates compatibility with road embankment failure case history.