Assessment of the Slope Stability of Qasmin in Latakia

Abstract

This research aims to evaluate the stability of the slope of Qasmin in the Latakia Governorate, which are influenced by complex set of geological and human factors. The research methodology relied on an integrated engineering-geological study that included collecting field data and conducting laboratory analyses to determine the lithological, physical, and mechanical properties of the rock in the area. The factor of safety was determined using Taylor's stability charts, where the stability number (Ns) was calculated based on the slope angle(β), internal friction angle(ɸ), cohesion(C), and unit weight (γ). The results showed that the factor of safety is less than (1.5), indicating an unstable condition according to international codes for permanent slopes. This is attributed to several factors, the most significant of which is the tectonic activity, (the February earthquake 2023), In addition to the human activity represented by water leakage due to the presence of water tank in the area, the cracks that occurred in its base as a result of the earthquake have negatively affected the cohesion of the rocks, thereby reducing their shear strength. Moreover, the lithology of the rocks, their mechanical properties, and the slope angle have significantly contributed to the reduction of slope stability.