Large-Scale Stabilization of Deluvial Clay Slopes through Integrated Drainage and Geometric Optimization: A Case Study

The paper deals with solving the instability phenomenon of a diluvial clay slope. The flysch deposits that predominate in the Curvature Subcarpathians are frequently affected by slope instability phenomena. The large volume of sediments entrained in movement requires that the stabilization method result as a consequence on the one hand of the scale effect, which implies a reduction of the mechanical parameters, and on the other hand due to cost constraints. Due to the fact that they generally have a creep character and do not have a visible catastrophic effect, they are analyzed as being of low risk, but their stabilization represents a major challenge from a technical point of view. The study case presents a stabilization method with minimal costs that has proven its effectiveness by acting on the entire unstable mass through superficial drainage and modifying the geometry of the slope by creating terraces and in the last instance a punctual intervention through support structures. After six years the aspect of the slope is still stable, uniform, clean, without irregularities.