Strength reduction analysis in polymeric reinforced soil walls

Abstract

The latest revision of EN-1997 allows for the use of numerical tools to design geotechnical structures, provided limit state conditions are thoroughly evaluated were analysis of the construction and post-construction stages must be included. Regarding ultimate limit state conditions, material factors must be used as to evaluate the effect of soil strength reduction on the performance of the structure. The present study focuses on the design of an idealized 10.5 m-tall reinforced soil wall with discrete concrete facing panels and polymeric strip reinforcements using finite element tools. A manual strength reduction analysis was performed, which showed no sign of structural failure, but rather hints of probable failure mechanisms which may occur, provided the structure is subjected to further unfavorable conditions.