Modeling of boundary applied load transmission in geosynthetics reinforced structures
Abstract
Reinforced soil structures are being increasingly used to transmit applied boundary loads to the natural ground. This is the case for instance in transportation infrastructures where bridge abutments, roadway or railway beds are often constructed of geosynthetic-reinforced soil. In spite of progress made in analysis and design of the structures, the mechanism of surface load transmission is still not fully understood. In particular, the roles played by fill compaction, confining action of the reinforcement, and the boundary interference of the wall facing are not well represented in current design methods. A new analytical model based on the stochastic theory of stress diffusion in particulate media is developed. Formulation of diffusivity coefficient for the stress distribution is determined by conducting a parametric study using a finite element program. The model accounts for the effect of factors associated with the reinforced soil system such as fill compaction, confinement and boundary interference with the stress diffusion mechanism. Based on the developed model, a modification of the current Federal Highway Administration Design Guidelines is proposed for reinforced soil structures subjected to applied surface loads.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Bourdeau, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Civil engineering
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