Volume 3, Issue 1 — Year 2026 — Article e100049

ISSN (Online): 3115-8129 Biannually

Risk Analysis for Stabilized Earth Slope using anchors via Mamdani Fuzzy Controller in MATLAB

Article Type: Research
Pages: e100049
DOI: https://doi.org/10.22034/CGEL.3.1.e100049
Crossmark
Open Access
Authors
Affiliations
  1. Department of Civil Engineering, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1955847781, Iran
  2. Department of Civil Engineering, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz 5158913791, Iran
Corresponding author
Email: civil_alireza.piribonab@gmail.com
Received: 19 December 2025 / Accepted: 27 February 2026 / Published: 25 May 2026
Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive risk analysis of ground-anchor-reinforced slopes using a Mamdani-type fuzzy inference system implemented in MATLAB. The objective is to effectively capture the inherent uncertainties and nonlinear behaviors associated with soil properties, anchor configurations, and slope geometry parameters that traditional deterministic methods often fail to represent adequately. A systematic literature review of over 60 peer-reviewed papers was conducted, focusing on slope stabilization techniques in sandy-clayey soils. From this, a database of 150 stabilization scenarios was compiled, covering a wide range of geotechnical conditions and reinforcement schemes. Key parameters such as slope angle, internal friction angle, cohesion, anchor length and position, and initial factor of safety were extracted and normalized for use in the fuzzy model. The Mamdani fuzzy system was designed with multiple inputs and a single output (risk level), integrating expert knowledge with data-driven insights derived from the compiled database. The fuzzy rules were developed through iterative calibration and validated using sensitivity analysis and cross-validation techniques. The model was implemented and tested in MATLAB. Results demonstrate that the fuzzy-based approach can effectively identify high-risk zones and provide a more nuanced understanding of slope behavior under reinforced conditions. Compared to conventional analysis methods, the proposed system offers improved interpretability and adaptability, making it a valuable decision-support tool during preliminary design and optimization phases. The model’s predictions showed strong agreement with documented outcomes from field case studies, confirming its reliability and practical relevance.

Keywords

Slope stability, Earth slopes, Fuzzy logic, MATLAB

Data availability statement

The data supporting the findings of this study are available within article. No publicly archived dataset was generated.

Funding

This research received no external funding.

Highlights
  • Fuzzy system evaluates reinforced slope risks
  • Model captures uncertainty in soil and anchors
  • Results improve design and decision-making
References
  1. Azadi A., Irani A.E., Azarafza M., Bonab M.H., Sarand F.B., Derakhshani R. (2022). Coupled numerical and analytical stability analysis charts for an earth-fill dam under rapid drawdown conditions. Applied Sciences, 12(9), 4550. https://doi.org/10.3390/app12094550.
  2. Azam M., Yusof M.F., Talib M.K.A. (2023). Plaxis 2D modelling of an anchor sheet pile for soil slope strengthening at segamat, Johor. Journal of Sustainable Underground Exploration, 3(2), 29-33.
  3. Azarafza M., Akgün H., Ghazifard A., Asghari-Kaljahi E., Rahnamarad J., Derakhshani R. (2021). Discontinuous rock slope stability analysis by limit equilibrium approaches–a review. International Journal of Digital Earth, 14(12), 1918-1941. https://doi.org/10.1080/17538947.2021.1988163.
  4. Bahsan E., Sopandji B.S., Sagitaningrum F.H. (2019). Evaluation of ground anchor design on man-made cut slope of cemented sand: a case study. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 650(1), 012023. https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899X/650/1/012023.
  5. Blanco-Fernandez E., Castro-Fresno D., Díaz J.D.C., Lopez-Quijada L. (2011). Flexible systems anchored to the ground for slope stabilisation: Critical review of existing design methods. Engineering Geology, 122(3-4), 129-145. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enggeo.2011.05.014.
  6. Bračko T., Jelušič P., Žlender B. (2024). A concept for adapting geotechnical structures considering the influences of climate change. Urbani Izziv, 35(1), 109-121.
  7. Budania R., Arora R.P., Ce C. (2016). Soil nailing for slope stabilization: an overview. International Journal of Engineering Science and Computing, 16(2), 3877-3882.
  8. Cai F., Ugai K. (2003). Reinforcing mechanism of anchors in slopes: a numerical comparison of results of LEM and FEM. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics, 27(7), 549-564. https://doi.org/10.1002/nag.284.
  9. Castro-Fresno D., López Q.L., Blanco-Fernandez E., Zamora-Barraza D. (2009). Design and evaluation of two laboratory tests for the nets of a flexible anchored slope stabilization system. Geotechnical Testing Journal, 32(4), 315-324. https://doi.org/10.1520/GTJ101218.
  10. Chen J.F., Du C.C., Peng M., Sun R., Zhao F., Shi Z.M. (2023). System reliability analysis of a slope stabilized with anchor cables and piles under seismic loading. Acta Geotechnica, 18(8), 4493-4514. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11440-023-01812-9.
  11. Chen R.H., Chi P.C., Fon K.Y. (2012). Model tests for anchored geosynthetic slope systems under dry and seepage conditions. Geosynthetics International, 19(4), 306-318. https://doi.org/10.1680/gein.12.00017.
  12. Choi S.W., Lee J., Kim J.M., Park H.S. (2013). Design and application of a field sensing system for ground anchors in slopes. Sensors, 13(3), 3739-3752. https://doi.org/10.3390/s130303739.
  13. Cousins B.F. (1978). Stability charts for simple earth slopes. Journal of the Geotechnical Engineering Division, 104(2), 267-279. https://doi.org/10.1061/AJGEB6.0000585.
  14. Du Y., Li H., Chicas S.D., Huo L. (2022). Progress and perspectives of geotechnical anchor bolts on slope engineering in China. Frontiers in Environmental Science, 10, 928064. https://doi.org/10.3389/fenvs.2022.928064.
  15. Duncan J.M., Wright S.G., Brandon T.L. (2014). Soil strength and slope stability. John Wiley & Sons, New Jersey, USA.
  16. Galli A., Salice M., Becci B. (2022). Analytical solutions for ultimate stabilizing action of anchored piles in cohesive soil layers. International Journal of Geomechanics, 22(9), 04022133. https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)GM.1943-5622.000247.
  17. Ghiassian H., Hryciw R.D., Gray D.H. (1996). Laboratory testing apparatus for slopes stabilized by anchored geosynthetics. Geotechnical Testing Journal, 19(1), 65-73. https://doi.org/10.1520/GTJ11409J.
  18. Griffiths D.V., Huang J., Fenton G.A. (2009). On the reliability of earth slopes in three dimensions. Proceedings of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences, 465(2110), 3145-3164. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspa.2009.0165.
  19. Hao J., Yang D., Ren G., Zhao Y., Cao R. (2025). A New Approach for the Calculation of Slope Failure Probability with Fuzzy Limit-State Functions. Fluid Dynamics & Materials Processing, 21(1), 141. https://doi.org/10.32604/fdmp.2024.054469.
  20. He F., Liu Z., Shi K.Y. (2023). Modeling of a slope reinforced by an anchored geomat system to investigate global loading behavior and slope stability. International Journal of Geomechanics, 23(8), 04023116. https://doi.org/10.1061/IJGNAI.GMENG-7776.
  21. Henrique Barbosa De Carvalho Tavares T., Bomjardim Porto T., Mazoni Andrade Marçal Mendes E., Pérez Ferreira B. (2023). Clustering-based fuzzy model for predicting anchor bearing capacity. International Journal of Geomechanics, 23(10), 04023168. https://doi.org/10.1061/IJGNAI.GMENG-6961.
  22. Hobst L., Zajíc J. (1983). Anchoring in rock and soil. Elsevier Science Ltd, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
  23. Hryciw R.D. (1991). Anchor design for slope stabilization by surface loading. Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 117(8), 1260-1274. https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0733-9410(1991)117:8(1260).
  24. Hryciw R.D., Irsyam M. (1992). Pullout stiffness of elastic anchors in slope stabilization systems. Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 118(6), 902-919. https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0733-9410(1992)118:6(902).
  25. Huang Y.H. (2012). Stability analysis of earth slopes. Springer Science & Business Media, Heidelberg, Germany.
  26. Ji J., Zhang W., Zhang F., Gao Y., Lü Q. (2020). Reliability analysis on permanent displacement of earth slopes using the simplified bishop method. Computers and Geotechnics, 117, 103286. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compgeo.2019.103286.
  27. Khan M.I., Wang S. (2021). Slope Stability Analysis to Develop Correlations between Different Soil Parameters and Factor of Safety Using Regression Analysis. Polish Journal of Environmental Studies, 30(5), 4021-4030.
  28. Kim Y., Ahn J., Jung J. (2017). Fuzzy modeling of holding capacity of offshore suction caisson anchors. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics, 41(7), 1038-1054. https://doi.org/10.1002/nag.2664.
  29. Koerner R.M. (2015). In-situ stabilization of soil slopes using nailed or anchored geosynthetics. International Journal of Geosynthetics and Ground Engineering, 1(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40891-014-0002-2.
  30. Kourkoulis R., Gelagoti F., Anastasopoulos I., Gazetas G. (2012). Hybrid method for analysis and design of slope stabilizing piles. Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, 138(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)GT.1943-5606.0000546.
  31. Kumar M., Stoll R., Stoll N. (2006). A min-max approach to fuzzy clustering, estimation, and identification. IEEE Transactions on Fuzzy Systems, 14(2), 248-262. https://doi.org/10.1109/TFUZZ.2005.864081.
  32. Li A.J., Wen H.C., Batistuta V.H., Cheng S.H. (2023). Influence of ground anchors corrosion and uncertainty strength parameters: A case study slope failure in northern Taiwan. Soils and Foundations, 63(3), 101316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sandf.2023.101316.
  33. Li X., He S., Wu Y. (2012). Limit analysis of the stability of slopes reinforced with anchors. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics, 36(17), 1898-1908. https://doi.org/10.1002/nag.1093.
  34. Mao Y., Chen L., Nanehkaran Y.A., Azarafza M., Derakhshani R. (2023). Fuzzy-based intelligent model for rapid rock slope stability analysis using Qslope. Water, 15(16), 2949. https://doi.org/10.3390/w15162949.
  35. Matos Y., Dantas S.A., Barreto G.D.A. (2023). Risk assessment in a rock slope stability analysis using a Mamdani fuzzy controller. REM-International Engineering Journal, 76(4), 313-320. https://doi.org/10.1590/0370-44672022760061.
  36. Mendel J.M. (1995). Fuzzy logic systems for engineering: a tutorial. Proceedings of the IEEE, 83(3), 345-377. https://doi.org/10.1109/5.364485.
  37. Miao C., Liu J., Gao M., Li J., Pang D., Yuan K. (2024). Insight into the overload failure mechanism of anchored slope with weak structural planes. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 83(10), 390. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-024-03895-4.
  38. Mohamed T., Kasa A., Taha M.R. (2012). Fuzzy logic system for slope stability prediction. International Journal on Advanced Science Engineering Information Technology, 2(2), 38-42.
  39. Mu’azu M.A. (2023). Enhancing slope stability prediction using fuzzy and neural frameworks optimized by metaheuristic science. Mathematical Geosciences, 55(2), 263-285. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11004-022-10029-7.
  40. Nanehkaran Y.A., Licai Z., Chengyong J., Chen J., Anwar S., Azarafza M., Derakhshani R. (2023). Comparative analysis for slope stability by using machine learning methods. Applied Sciences, 13(3), 1555. https://doi.org/10.3390/app13031555.
  41. Nanehkaran Y.A., Mao Y., Azarafza M., Kockar M.K., Zhu H.H. (2021). Fuzzy-based multiple decision method for landslide susceptibility and hazard assessment: A case study of Tabriz, Iran. Geomechanics and Engineering, 24(5), 407-418. https://doi.org/10.12989/gae.2021.24.5.407.
  42. Ortigao J.A.R., Sayao A. (2004). Handbook of slope stabilisation. Springer Science & Business Media, Heidelberg, Germany.
  43. Petley D.N. (2004). The evolution of slope failures: mechanisms of rupture propagation. Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences, 4(1), 147-152. https://doi.org/10.5194/nhess-4-147-2004.
  44. Prayoga W.A.Y., Fachmi W.M., Salimah A., Setiawan Y., Hazmi M. (2023). Comparative Analysis of Riverbanks Retrofitting Planning Using Strauss Pile and Ground Anchor. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1173(1), 012028. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1173/1/012028.
  45. Saboya Jr F., da Glória Alves M., Pinto W.D. (2006). Assessment of failure susceptibility of soil slopes using fuzzy logic. Engineering Geology, 86(4), 211-224. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enggeo.2006.05.001.
  46. Sarshar N., Derakhshani A. (2024). Stability analysis of anchored sheet pile wall considering soil spatial variability based on fuzzy logic. Ocean Engineering, 308, 118351. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oceaneng.2024.118351.
  47. Sasiharan N., Muhunthan B., Shu S., Badger T.C. (2005). Analysis of global stability, anchor spacing, and support cable loads in wire mesh and cable net slope protection systems. Transportation Research Record, 1913(1), 205-213. https://doi.org/10.1177/0361198105191300120.
  48. Seyedpour M.S., Derakhshani A. (2023). Probabilistic stability analysis of anchored cantilever sheet pile walls using fuzzy set theory. Applied Ocean Research, 131, 103454. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apor.2022.103454.
  49. Shroder Jr J., Cvercková L., Mulhern K.L. (2005). Slope-failure analysis and classification: Review of a century of effort. Physical Geography, 26(3), 216-247. https://doi.org/10.2747/0272-3646.26.3.216.
  50. Stoffel M., Trappmann D.G., Coullie M.I., Ballesteros Cánovas J.A., Corona C. (2024). Rockfall from an increasingly unstable mountain slope driven by climate warming. Nature Geoscience, 17(3), 249-254. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41561-024-01390-9.
  51. Teodorović D. (1999). Fuzzy logic systems for transportation engineering: the state of the art. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, 33(5), 337-364. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0965-8564(98)00024-X.
  52. Usluogullari O.F., Temugan A., Duman E.S. (2016). Comparison of slope stabilization methods by three-dimensional finite element analysis. Natural Hazards, 81(2), 1027-1050. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-015-2118-7.
  53. Wang J., Liu L. (2024). Analysis on slope stability by anchorage based on soil creep with flood effect. Heliyon, 10(17), e37126. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e37126.
  54. Wang L., Lu K., Zhu D. (2024). Theoretical solutions for the anchoring force of 3‐D anchored slope and optimization strategy for anchoring force distribution. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics, 48(5), 1390-1412. https://doi.org/10.1002/nag.3692.
  55. Wang W., Li D.Q., Tang X.S., Du W. (2023). Seismic fragility and demand hazard analyses for earth slopes incorporating soil property variability. Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, 173, 108088. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soildyn.2023.108088.
  56. Wang Y.M., Elhag T.M. (2006). On the normalization of interval and fuzzy weights. Fuzzy Sets and Systems, 157(18), 2456-2471. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fss.2006.06.008.
  57. Xue L., Li L., Xu C., Cui Y., Ding H., Huang K., Li Z. (2024). A multi-objective optimization evaluation model for seismic performance of slopes reinforced by pile-anchor system. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 5044. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-55766-3.
  58. Ye S., Fang G., Ma X. (2019). Reliability analysis of grillage flexible slope supporting structure with anchors considering fuzzy transitional interval and fuzzy randomness of soil parameters. Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, 44(10), 8849-8857. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13369-019-03912-9.
  59. Ye W., Zhou Y., Ye S. (2021). Dynamic stability analysis of frame anchor-supported slope. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 14(15), 1489. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12517-021-07879-6.
  60. Zadeh L.A. (1965). Fuzzy sets. Information and control, 8(3), 338-353.
  61. Zhang T., Zheng H., Sun C. (2019). Global method for stability analysis of anchored slopes. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics, 43(1), 124-137. https://doi.org/10.1002/nag.2856.
  62. Zheng D., Liu F.Z., Ju N.P., Frost J.D., Huang R.Q. (2016). Cyclic load testing of pre-stressed rock anchors for slope stabilization. Journal of Mountain Science, 13(1), 126-136. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11629-015-3605-8.
  63. Zhu D. Y., Lee C.F., Chan D.H., Jiang H.D. (2005). Evaluation of the stability of anchor-reinforced slopes. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 42(5), 1342-1349. https://doi.org/10.1139/t05-060.
  64. Zhu Y.P., Tao J., Yang X.H., Peng J.G., Wu Q. (2020). Design and numerical analyses of high-fill slope strengthened by frame with prestressed anchor-plates. Rock and Soil Mechanics, 41(2), 11. https://doi.org/10.16285/j.rsm.2019.5035.
How to cite
Anari, P., & Bonab, A. P. (2026). Risk Analysis for Stabilized Earth Slope using anchors via Mamdani Fuzzy Controller in MATLAB. Civil and Geoengineering Letters, 3(1), e100049. https://doi.org/10.22034/CGEL.3.1.e100049
Note: Please verify the citation against your preferred style guide.
Share
X LinkedIn Facebook Email Mendeley
Article Metrics
373 Readers
263 Downloads
N/A Citations
PDF XML Back to Issue