Experimental and Numerical Modelling of a Reinforced Structure

The paper presents a complex of research of the soil retaining structure. The results of a numerical analysis, as well as laboratory modelling in the 1/40 scale, are presented in this paper. The paper includes constructive solution analysis for the retaining structure construction. Solution implies the usage of piles as retaining element and geogrid as an element of soil reinforcement. A methodology for optimizing a constructive solution by using modern finite element method is also proposed. A quantitative estimate of the geogrid application efficiency for different task design within the single constructive solution of retaining structure (RS hereinafter) is given. The model tests include model testing of an RS without geosynthetic reinforcement elements (geogrid); and series of model tests of an RS with a geogrid for various piles spans as well. The test results are summarized in a graphical and tabular form. In general, the results of the research showed the effective use of geosynthetic reinforced material, as an element of soil strengthening.