Abstract: Traditional numerical analysis could not reflect the intermittent and random discontinuities in rock slope because the slopes are generalized into continuous homogeneous body or discrete rigid units, of which the former neglects the impact of discontinuities while the latter exaggerates the control effect of discontinuities. Finite element simulation with joint network could overcome the limits by giving more reliable results such as slope stress, displacement, plastic zone, stability coefficient, as well as the evolution and range of deformation failure. In this paper, the basic principle and method of finite element simulation with joint network are introduced, and its application to a granite slope is expounded. Result suggests that the studied slope is stable in general, with the stability coefficient under natural condition and seismic condition reaching 1.57 and 1.46, respectively. Strongly-weathered loose rockmass with surface joints is of low stability. Practices show that the method provides a new idea and method for the study of rock slope stability.

Key words: joint network, finite element, frigid and arid region, granite slope, stability analysis