Deformation and crack development of a nailed loose fill slope subjected to water infiltration

The paper presents the characteristics of progressive movement and crack development observed in a loose fill slope reinforced by soil nails subjected to water infiltration. The purpose-built test slope was constructed by end-tipping completely decomposed granite on moderately gentle sloping ground with minimal compaction, and two rows of soil nails were installed after completion of the slope. Based on the field monitoring data obtained from a comprehensive instrumentation system, this field test has identified the initiation and development mechanism of deformation, including crack propagation in the test slope. The test results on the temporal and spatial variation of wetting-induced movement, water content distribution, and suction change as well as the formation and propagation of surficial cracks are presented. The causative mechanisms of wetting-induced deformations and their implications on the stability of nailed fill slopes are also presented and discussed.