Design and numerical modeling of reinforced earth retaining structures

Abstract

The Reinforced Earth theory was created by French H. Vidal in 1966 and has showed up a progressive development till today. With cost and time savings that the technique brings with, Reinforced Earth Retaining Structures have became one of the most preferred solutions for many engineering projects. In this study, design and behavior principles of Reinforced Earth Retaining Structures under static and dynamic loading cases have been investigated. Design principles are selected in accordance with relevant regulations of Turkey, France and USA Highway Administrations. Finite Element Model of Reinforced Earth Retaining Wall has been realized with respect to codes of U.S Department of Transportation. A parametric study of static and dynamic response analysis of reinforced earth retaining structures was performed using a finite element analysis with commercial computer software, Plaxis. It is aimed to observe the influence of reinforcement type, reinforcement spacing, backfill material and reinforced slope on induced permanent displacements and stability of system. In order to compare and observe the influences of variable parameters; one natural slope model and three different reinforced earth retaining wall models were examined by Plaxis. After completion of Plaxis analyses, results obtained by Plaxis have been compared with the results obtained by hand calculations in order to check accuracy of analyses and observe differences in analysis methods. The influence of applied models to the system has been evaluated and interpreted.