Approximate analytical solutions for a cohesive fold-and-thrust wedge: some results for lateral variation in wedge properties and for finite wedge angle

An existing solution for a perfectly plastic fold-and-thrust wedge with finite wedge angle is shown to be invalid. An approximate solution for a cohesive Coulomb wedge is obtained under the restrictions of small wedge angle and a weak basal surface. The effect of lateral variation in wedge properties is explicitly included. Using a similar method, the exact solution for a perfectly plastic wedge with horizontal upper surface and large wedge angle β̄ is perturbed to give an approximate solution for a wedge with nonvanishing surface topography. The correction to the wedge profile obtained from the slender wedge approximation enters at β̄². The correction yields a 6% maximum reduction in slope for a wedge angle of 15°. -Author