This study describes the results of a series of 2D finite element method (FEM) numerical models of 6 m high back-to-back reinforced soil walls using the geotechnical software PLAXIS. These structures are used to support embankments, especially for bridge abutment approaches. The quantitative influence of problem geometry, strip pre-tensioning, strip type, and surcharging on horizontal displacements, development of soil shear and plastic zones, lateral earth pressure, and reinforcement loads is presented. The numerical results demonstrate that the back-to-back reinforced soil walls perform jointly when the distance of interaction between the two opposite walls is greater than the interaction distance, which is defined in FHWA, and is contrary to the results of the FHWA design guideline. The walls of the two opposing sides interact with each other when they are close enough and with an overlapping reinforcement layout. Pre-tensioning load can contribute to achieving vertical wall-facing alignment at the end of construction. Using perforated/holed strips, the tensile loads at the end of construction were reduced by about 30% due to the improved polymeric–soil interface strength and stiffness.
Purpose This paper aims to focus on three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulation of a monitored urban underground road consisting of diaphragm walls supported by one row of temporary steel struts and a cover slab in the central area. In addition to the lateral wall displacements, the analysis focuses on the load development in the struts and the evolution of the total stresses at the soil–wall interface, and highlights the 3D effect on the behavior of the structure. Design/methodology/approach Computation by back-analysis has become an important contribution to the understanding of observed phenomena. In this context, this paper investigates a full 3D numerical back-analysis of diaphragm wall deformation using the finite difference code FLAC3D. Findings The instrumentation allows a deep understanding of the ground response and the soil-structure interaction phenomena. It also provides an opportunity to validate numerical models. Using a soil model with simple failure criteria, the wall displacements are strongly influenced by the soil deformation modulus. The strut stiffness considerably influences the wall behavior. The geometrical effects have a significant impact on the induced wall displacements. Originality/value In the present study, the main soil geotechnical characteristics were deduced from laboratory and in situ tests. However, Young’s modulus of the soil has been adjusted to take account of the unloading effect. In the same context, the non-linearity of the elastic characteristics of the steel struts has been taken into account by modeling the struts using their experimental stiffness instead of their theoretical rigidity.
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