Reliability-based methods in geotechnical engineering: uncertainty quantification for ground modeling and slope stability assessment

This research area is dedicated to the application of reliability-based methods in geotechnical engineering to quantify uncertainties in soil modeling and slope stability. The focus is on the probabilistic evaluation of slope stability using numerical methods such as the Finite Element Method (FEM) and the Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM). In addition, the suitability and precision of simulation methods, such as Monte Carlo simulations, for reliability assessment are examined in detail. A further focus is on the statistical analysis of uncertainties in the derivation of layer boundaries from exploratory results using suitable statistical models. The overall objective is to deepen the understanding of safety and reliability concepts in geotechnical engineering and to optimize the practical implementation of reliability-based approaches for slope stability assessment, taking into account scattering and uncertain influencing variables.

The project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) as part of the "Sustainable Universities" program. The aim of the funding is to develop and implement innovative concepts for environmentally friendly and resource-conserving campus design.

Important partners in the project are the city of Siegen, which provides support in the areas of mobility and climate protection, and the Institute for Environmental Research NRW, which provides scientific analysis and expertise. Siegen's municipal utilities are also involved in the implementation of sustainable energy solutions.