Assessment of Soil–Structure Interaction Approaches in Mechanically Stabilized Earth Retaining Walls: A Review

Abstract

Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls are recognized for their cost-effectiveness and superior performance as earth-retaining structures. The integration of internally reinforced walls has transformed soil preservation practices, garnering significant attention from the global technical community. The construction method of MSE walls has recently gained widespread popularity, likely due to its cost efficiency and simplicity compared to traditional externally reinforced walls. This paper provides a comprehensive review of MSE walls, including their historical development, aesthetics, benefits, drawbacks, factors influencing lateral displacements and stress responses, and the concept of the MSE wall system. Key approaches for analyzing seismic soil–structure interaction (SSI) issues are emphasized, investigating the dynamic interaction between the structure and soil through various research methodologies. This study incorporates multiple publications, offering an in-depth review of the current state of dynamic SSI studies considering surrounding structures. The findings emphasize the significant sensitivity of the dynamic behavior of mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls to soil–structure interaction, highlighting the necessity for continuous research in this area. The paper identifies research gaps and proposes future directions to enhance MSE wall design and application, facilitating further advancements in earth-retaining structures.

Keywords

• mechanically stabilized earth walls
• soil–structure interaction
• internally stabilized fill
• lateral displacements
• a review