Effectiveness of horizontal drains for slope stability

Horizontal drains have been commonly used in stabilising unsaturated residual soil slopes. This study examines the effectiveness of horizontal drains in stabilising residual soil slopes against rainfall-induced slope failures under a tropical climate. The study includes field instrumentation at two residual soil slopes complemented with a parametric study relating to drain position. Field monitoring results indicate that rainfall infiltration is limited to a certain depth below which infiltration becomes insignificant. This zone tends to be unsuitable for horizontal drains. Horizontal drains were found to be most effective when located at the base of a slope. The parametric study indicated conditions under which horizontal drains are effective or ineffective in improving the stability of a slope. It was also found that horizontal drains have little role in minimising infiltration in an unsaturated residual soil slope. Benefits of using horizontal drains can be obtained through the lowering of the water table.