Study on morphological characteristics of coarse particles in sliding zones of huangtupo landslide in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, China

Abstract

The coarse particles (defined as particle size between 0.25 mm and 2 mm here) in sliding zones of Huangtupo landslide in Three Gorges Reservoir Area are taken as study objects. Particle size distribution and particle profiles of samples are firstly obtained through sieving tests and digital imaging respectively. Combined with fractal theory, the fractal dimensions of particle size distributions and particle profiles are calculated quantitatively. Scanning electron microscopy and energy disperse spectroscopy are employed to capture the micrograph and test the mineral composition of samples. Tests and analysis results indicate that the particle size distributions and profiles of samples have fractal characteristics, and the fractal dimensions can be used as quantitative analytical index for the evolution of sliding zones. As the continuous development of sliding zones, the particle mass – size fractal dimension increase and the profile fractal dimension decrease. The special surface characteristics of particles can also indirectly reflect the stress and deformation conditions during the failure and evolution of the sliding zones.