Dynamic process analysis of large-scale landslides triggered by the Wenchuan earthquake via the discrete element method

Xiangrui Huang, Danqing Song, Zhuo Chen (), Dakai Xu and Liang Wang
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Xiangrui Huang: Sichuan Agricultural University
Danqing Song: South China University of Technology
Zhuo Chen: Sichuan Agricultural University
Dakai Xu: Sichuan Agricultural University
Liang Wang: Sichuan Agricultural University

Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, 2025, vol. 121, issue 6, No 55, 7683-7706

Abstract: Abstract This study utilized the discrete element method to simulate the dynamic processes of earthquake-induced landslides, aiming to explore the instability mechanisms, energy transformation, and movement characteristics of such landslides. By constructing a two-dimensional landslide model, typical landslides triggered by the Wenchuan earthquake were simulated, leading to the following key conclusions: (1) The landslide instability process can be divided into three consecutive stages: disintegration of slope materials (bond breakage), initiation and propagation of the slip surface from top to bottom, and coherent downslope movement of slope materials, followed by reorganization into a stable postfailure state. (2) Energy transformation and dissipation are critical factors in landslide dynamics, with frictional heat being the primary source of energy dissipation during the landslide process. (3) The evolution of kinetic energy over time shows initial stability, a gradual increase as the sliding mass moves downwards, and an eventual reduction to zero as the landslide ceases. The increase in heat corresponds to a decrease in kinetic energy, reflecting the mechanisms of energy transformation and dissipation during the landslide process. The results of this study demonstrate that the discrete element method has significant advantages in simulating complex geological phenomena, providing important insights for landslide prediction and disaster mitigation in earthquake-prone areas.

Keywords: Wenchuan earthquake; Large-scale landslides; Dynamic process analysis; Two-dimensional discrete element; MatDEM (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s11069-025-07114-5

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