Geosynthetic-Reinforced Soil Walls and Slopes: US Perspective

The economics and successful performance of geosynthetic reinforced soil walls and slopes resulted in a significant increased use of these systems. Currently there are three different design methodologies: lateral earth pressure analysis, limit equilibrium analysis, and continuum mechanics.based analysis. This paper discusses the advantages of each approach as well as its limitations. Lateral earth pressure approach is easy to apply but limited to walls, based on calibration, and it usually yields very conservative results. Limit equilibrium approach is an extension of slope stability analysis, applicable to slopes and walls, typically yields conservative results but requires computer program to apply. Continuum mechanics.based approach such as finite element or finite difference is rigorous but requires good characterization of all elements composing the problem and accurate modeling of the problem or else it may lead to unconservative results. A detailed example problem illustrates the relative performance of each approach. Also briefly discussed is an ongoing research effort to refine existing designs while keeping it simple.