In this paper

an analysis algorithm which can be used to determine critical sliding surface and critical height of slope

based on numerical stress field

is presented. Upon the algorithm

firstly

the stress field of slope can be obtained by using the finite element analysis method to get more accuracy. Secondly

through simulation of slope

the laws of generation and movement of particles similar to the process of chain reaction are studied. Finally

the critical sliding surface can be determined. Therefore four conclusions can be drawn: (1) A method for determining the critical sliding surface of slope on account of numerical stress field is proposed

which can find potential failure path while no disturbance of the shape and location of slope sliding surface. (2) By controlling such four factors as range and boundary

excitation source

diffusion path and path metrics

the algorithm can get higher accuracy and simultaneously higher efficiency. (3) The algorithm takes the effect of strength anisotropy on stability of slope into consideration. And it is valid to compute the critical slope height. (4) A detailed calculation example has verified the proposed algorithm. Compared to calculation results obtained by the two methods of PSO and Monte Carlo

the reliability of the algorithm could also be proved.