Three-Dimensional Analysis of Geogrid-Reinforced Soil Using a Finite-Discrete Element Framework
Publication: International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 15, Issue 4
Abstract
Three-dimensional analysis of soil-structure interaction problems considering the response at the particle scale level is a challenging numerical modeling problem. An efficient framework that takes advantage of both the finite- and discrete-element approaches to investigate soil-geogrid interactions is described in this paper. The method uses finite elements to model the structural components and discrete particles to model the surrounding soil to reflect the discontinuous nature of the granular material. The coupled framework is used in this study to investigate two geotechnical engineering problems, namely, strip footing over geogrid-reinforced sand and geogrid-reinforced fill over a strong formation containing void. The numerical model is first validated using experimental data and then used to provide new insights into the nature of the three-dimensional interaction between the soil and the geogrid layer.
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Acknowledgments
This research is supported by a research grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). The financial support provided by a McGill Engineering Doctoral Award (MEDA) to V. D. H. T. is greatly appreciated.
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International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 15 • Issue 4 • August 2015
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© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Apr 9, 2013
Accepted: Apr 15, 2014
Published online: May 13, 2014
Published in print: Aug 1, 2015
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