FLAC modeling of the deformation and failure mechanism of a high cut in clay shales

The paper illustrates FLAC modeling of the deformation and failure process which occurred in a high cut excavated in a clay shale formation for the exploitation of a brown coal seam. Deformation and failure development as indicated by monitoring and in situ observations are described. A mechanism of the phenomena is suggested with the aid of FLAC modeling of the cut slope, assuming both continuum and discontinuum-like behavior of the clay shales. Calculated and observed displacement patterns and failure conditions are compared with reference to different modeling assumptions.