Centrifuge model tests on excavation-induced failure of slopes

Based on the centrifuge of Tsinghua University, a new device was developed to conduct the excavation of a slope in flight. The centrifuge model test was conducted to simulate the excavation of a cohesive slope. The displacement field was measured during the excavation. The results show that the failure process of the slope begins at the bottom of the slope and extends to the top eventually, including two stages: small deformation stage and rapidly increasing deformation stage. Cracks occurred in the top due to tension, however, their extension can be attributed to the cooperation of tension and shear along with the shear zone.