Abstract: It is often difficult to simulate the failure of reinforced slopes using the traditional finite element method due to mesh distortion that may cause numerical problems with large deformation. Few previous numerical simulations of reinforced slope failure can be found in the literature. For large deformation problems, the material point method is generally suitable, but a challenge emerges if it is used to simulate the interaction between geosynthetics and soil. To simulate the centrifugal model tests of reinforced slope failure, this paper develops a new model by applying the hybrid finite element material point method. Using this model, we have obtained simulations that agree with the model tests, such as peak geotextile strain, the position of sliding surfaces, and the shape of sliding bodies. The simulated vertical stress at the right side of the slope is nearly the same as its theoretical estimate and the major failure characteristics are captured, verifying our model and the material point method for large deformation analyses.

Key words: reinforced soil, material point method, geosynthetic, slope, centrifugal test