Search for critical slip circle using genetic algorithms

In using traditional nonlinear optimization techniques for determining the critical slip surface in slope-stability analysis there is generally some u ncertainty as to robustness of the algorithms to locate the global minimum factor of safety rather than the local minimum factor of safety for complic ated and non-homogeneous geological subsoil conditions. This paper describe s the incorporation of a genetic algorithm methodology which is becoming in creasingly popular in engineering optimization problems as it has been show n in a wide variety of problems to be suitably robust for the search not to become trapped in local optima. First, the general principles of genetic a lgorithms are described. The genetic algorithm procedure used to locate the critical circular slip surface is then described. The Eve examples present ed indicate that the search strategy was sufficiently robust and efficient to handle multi-layered soils.