Abstract #
This paper explores the challenges and solutions for constructing underground houses on slopes with high sliding potential, focusing on the structural and architectural approaches that can address stability issues. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating the house structure into the slope, using the building’s walls as retaining structures to stabilize the sliding surfaces. Various architectural approaches are discussed, including buried and half-buried house designs, which offer the dual benefits of reducing construction costs and improving slope stability. The research uses case studies from Transylvania, where the unique topography and soil conditions present significant geotechnical risks.
Technical Relevance #
This document is highly relevant for architects, geotechnical engineers, and urban planners involved in the design and construction of residential buildings on slopes with sliding potential. The study provides valuable insights into how architectural design can be leveraged to mitigate geotechnical risks, making it a critical resource for ensuring the safety and cost-effectiveness of developments in hilly or mountainous regions.
Target Audience #
The document is intended for geotechnical engineers, civil engineers, architects, urban planners, and professionals involved in slope stability analysis and the design of residential buildings on challenging terrains. It is particularly useful for those working in regions with a high risk of landslides or other slope stability issues, such as the Transylvanian region in Romania.
Software and Methodology #
The study uses GEO5 software to perform slope stability analysis, focusing on both circular and polygonal sliding surfaces. The methodology includes the analysis of soil parameters, slope geometry, and the influence of groundwater on slope stability. The research considers different construction scenarios, including the use of retaining walls and anchorage systems to enhance the stability of slopes where underground houses are planned. The study also evaluates the impact of seismic actions on slope stability, using the Fellenius-Petterson and Sarma methods to calculate the factor of safety.
Process Description #
The paper begins with an overview of the challenges associated with building on slopes with sliding potential, highlighting the benefits of using underground or half-buried houses as a solution. The process description includes the collection of soil data, such as cohesion and angle of internal friction, and the use of GEO5 software to model different slope stability scenarios. The study also discusses the architectural considerations for integrating houses into the slope, including the design of foundation systems that can act as retaining structures to stabilize the slope. The analysis focuses on ensuring that the factor of safety meets the minimum requirements set by European and Romanian norms.
Main Findings #
The study finds that underground houses can significantly improve slope stability by integrating the structure into the terrain, thereby reducing the need for additional retaining walls. The analysis shows that the most critical sliding surfaces occur in sandy soil layers influenced by groundwater, and that the use of anchorage systems can further enhance stability. The research also highlights the importance of considering seismic effects, which can drastically reduce the factor of safety if not properly accounted for in the design.
Practical Applications #
The findings from this study are directly applicable to the design and construction of residential buildings on slopes with high sliding potential. Engineers and architects can use the insights gained to design structures that not only meet aesthetic and functional goals but also contribute to the stability of the slope. The study provides practical guidance on the use of retaining walls, anchorage systems, and drainage solutions to mitigate geotechnical risks in challenging terrains.
Limitations and Considerations #
The document acknowledges that the success of the proposed solutions depends on the accuracy of the soil data and the proper application of geotechnical analysis methods. Engineers should conduct thorough site investigations and consider local geological conditions when applying these findings to their projects. The study also emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and maintenance to ensure the long-term stability of the slope and the safety of the structures built on it.
Conclusions #
The paper concludes that building underground houses on sliding slopes offers a viable solution for stabilizing the terrain while reducing construction costs. The integration of the structure into the slope, combined with appropriate foundation and anchorage systems, can effectively mitigate the risks associated with landslides. The study highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach, involving both architectural and geotechnical expertise, to achieve successful outcomes in such challenging environments.
Related Resources #
Further reading includes studies on slope stability analysis using GEO5 software, research on the design of underground and half-buried houses in geotechnically challenging areas, and case studies on the use of retaining walls and anchorage systems in slope stabilization. Additional resources on the impact of seismic actions on slope stability can provide deeper insights into optimizing design strategies for construction on sliding slopes.
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