Bearing Capacity Characteristics and Failure Modes of Low Geosynthetic-Reinforced Embankments Overlying Voids
Publication: International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 18, Issue 8
Abstract
Reinforcement solutions can ensure that low geosynthetic-reinforced (LGR) embankments progressively subside instead of suddenly failing due to void collapse, which provides an early warning to allow surface refilling to be carried out. This study investigates the characteristics of the bearing capacity and failure modes of the LGR embankments overlying voids using large-deformation finite-element analysis and normalization method. The system as a whole has six distinct failure modes: the trapdoor, sidewall, combination of roof and sidewall, rotational roof, combination of roof and single sidewall, and slope failure modes. Five types of slip lines exist for the LGR embankment: the vertical, trapezoid, double-cambered, partial-vaulted, and vaulted slip lines. This study also presents the effects of influencing parameters (e.g., rupture strength of the reinforcement, location and size of the void, and height and shear strength parameters of embankment fills) on the ultimate bearing capacity of the system. Design charts are obtained to determine the required soil properties and evaluate the characteristics of the bearing capacity of the system.
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Acknowledgments
The financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant 41572253) is gratefully acknowledged.
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Published In
International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 18 • Issue 8 • August 2018
Copyright
© 2018 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Oct 10, 2017
Accepted: Feb 2, 2018
Published online: May 24, 2018
Published in print: Aug 1, 2018
Discussion open until: Oct 24, 2018
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