Modeling landslide mechanics in a tectonic and volcanic environment (southern Cianjur, Indonesia): A heuristic-probabilistic approach
Abstract
Southern Cianjur experiences numerous landslides. This study determines that stratigraphic and geologic structures control their occurrences. Sequences of rocks that have contrasting physical characteristics---such as the Lower Part of the Bentang Formation (Tmbl), the Upper Part of the Bentang Formation (Tmbu), and volcanic products (Quk)---create potential slip surfaces along their contacts. Dips in the bedding planes that are in the same direction with the slope surface (synclinal valley slope) contribute further deterioration to these unfavorable conditions. In addition, some landslides are triggered by faults. Other, smaller landslides are the result of local slope conditions, including low soil cohesion, high water content, and low internal friction angle. The above results were obtained through assessments of landslides and the potential causative factors in the framework of a slope system, as suggested by the General System Theory. This study considers lithology, soil, slope inclination, landcover, rainfall, earthquake, and faults as the components of slope systems related to landslides. The methods that evaluate the relationship between landslides and these components include Geographic Information Systems (GIS), statistical software packages, and geotechnical analyses. The results of these methods are consistent. However, a background knowledge in earth sciences also plays an important role in creating a model of the landslide mechanisms in Southern Cianjur.
- Publication:
-
Ph.D. Thesis
- Pub Date:
- 1999
- Bibcode:
- 1999PhDT.......153D