Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Geosynthetic-Reinforced Pile-Supported Embankments for Loose Sandy Soils

Abstract

This research focuses on advancing the geosynthetic-reinforced pile-supported embankment technology over loose sandy soil. A small-scale laboratory model supported by floating piles and a geotextile layer was constructed, and a numerical model was validated against laboratory measurements. This study aims to achieve a more uniform distribution of the load over all piles of the system via a parametric study that analyzes the influence of embankment fill material, horizontal reinforcement scenarios, pile cap shape, and pile type. The results demonstrate that using embankment fill with high cohesion and internal friction properties leads to a significant reduction of 46% and 37% in maximum settlements, respectively, and similarly, results in a noteworthy reduction of 48% and 50% in differential settlements. The incorporation of two geotextile layers contributes to a reduction of up to 30% in maximum settlement. The utilization of plus-shaped caps in small areas, with an area equal to three times the cross-sectional area of the pile, has been substantiated as the preeminent approach for the reduction of settlements. Piles with caps also present better behavior regarding differential settlements compared to longer piles and piles with bigger diameters under the same volume condition.

Innovations in Offshore Wind: Reviewing Current Status and Future Prospects with a Parametric Analysis of Helical Pile Performance for Anchoring Mooring Lines

“…With a wide range of defining parameters, which can be derived from laboratory testing or field experience, the Hardening Soil model has proven efficacy in simulating soil behavior across diverse conditions. Its extensive utilization in numerous research studies attests to its effectiveness and versatility [84][85][86][87][88].…”

Research on Static and Dynamic Loading Performance of Geosynthetic Reinforced and Pile-Supported Embankment

“…Embankment construction for infrastructure projects has considerably increased during the past few decades in soft soil, loess, and medium-compression soil regions. Among the various ground improvement methods, geosynthetic reinforced and pile-supported (GRPS) embankments are considered to be a reliable and suitable solution for time-bound construction projects and difficult ground conditions [1][2][3][4][5][6]. GRPS embankments are piles, geogrids, and soil synergistic action of the three to bear the load; the main working principle relies on the soil arch effect and tensioned membrane effect [7].…”

“…In recent years, scholars have conducted a series of research projects on the action mechanism and load-bearing capacity of GRPS embankments. Alsirawan et al [3] studied the GRPS embankment technology over loose sandy soil. The results demonstrate that using two layers of geotextile with optimal positions over the pile heads can improve load distribution and reduce the variance in load efficiency between the piles.…”