Behavior of a Stiff Clay behind Embedded Integral Abutments
Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 133, Issue 6
Abstract
Integral bridges can significantly reduce maintenance and repair costs compared with conventional bridges. However, uncertainties have arisen in the design as the soil experiences temperature-induced cyclic loading behind the abutments. This paper presents the results from an experimental program on the behavior of Atherfield clay, a stiff clay from the United Kingdom, behind embedded integral abutments. Specimens were subjected to the stress paths and levels of cyclic straining that a typical embedded integral abutment might impose on its retained soil. The results show that daily and annual temperature changes can cause significant horizontal stress variations behind such abutments. However, no buildup in lateral earth pressure with successive cycles was observed for this typical stiff clay, and the stress–strain behavior and stiffness behavior were not influenced by continued cycling. The implications of the results for integral abutment design are discussed.
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Acknowledgments
The research described in this paper was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council of the United Kingdom, PRC/Hong Kong Postgraduate Scholarship, and by an Overseas Research Studentship from Universities U.K.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 133 • Issue 6 • June 2007
Pages: 721 - 730
Copyright
© 2007 ASCE.
History
Received: Jan 24, 2006
Accepted: Dec 5, 2006
Published online: Jun 1, 2007
Published in print: Jun 2007
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