Based on comparative analyses of slope stability of embankment on composite subgrade by using limit equilibrium method and finite element method

it is revealed that the calculated safety factors by LEM and FEM can be significantly different when the reinforcements in composite subgrade have dominating influence. Embankment stability can be well predicted by strength-reduction method by using plaxis software. It is further investigated that for embankment on composite subgrade the potential failure patterns of reinforcement columns such as bending

rotation and extension

other than direct shearing through reinforcements

made the difference in calculated safety factors by LEM and FEM. Therefore

for embankment stability analysis with interaction between soil and reinforcement in composite subgrade

LEM may overestimate slope stability and its applicability should be checked with caution.