While performing kinematic analysis for wedge failure of rock slope in Dips 6.0 software (RocScience), it indicates region of secondary wedge failure envelop (marked by yellow by default). However, I am looking for any peer reviewed document that provides the mechanism of secondary wedge failure.
This is what I think, but I may be wrong.
The zone highlighted in yellow shows the area where geometrically the wedge can fail, however, it does not consider the friction or strength along the planes that define de wedge, only the geometric condition while the red area does consider the friction.
You are right Jorge Costa-de-Moura. The second major circle is defined from the friction circle.
Yellow are all possible kinematic, Red restrict the area taking into account friction angle.
Be aware that areas defined doesn't take into account other variables like water pressure.
I had a communication with Dr. Duncan C Wyllie regarding this question and got very convincing explanation. Hereby, I am sharing the communication in the attached document.
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