Dynamic Response and Geogrid Strain Analysis of GRS Retaining Wall

Abstract

Modular Geogrid Reinforced Soil (GRS) retaining walls, as flexible structures, usually have a certain deformation capacity. However, the deformation damage of the facing panels will directly affect the durability performance of the retaining wall and pose a threat to the safety and operation of the road and related facilities. In order to study the influence of different load factors on the deformation mode and failure characteristics of the retaining wall, an indoor large-scale model test was carried out. The test load considers the average load, peak value, amplitude and frequency of load under traffic load. The changes in settlement and horizontal deformation, geogrid strain and acceleration response of the GRS retaining wall are compared and analyzed. The results show that in the dynamic test, the two wall damage modes are “wall facing outward tilt” and “wall facing outward curved”. The maximum strain of the geogrid was 4.5% and 3.6%, respectively, which did not reach the damage strain. The peak load is the largest mechanical response of all load factors, followed by the load magnitude and average value, and finally the load frequency. In addition, combining the existing GRS retaining wall deformation and earth pressure calculation theory, a set of calculation methods for the strain of tendons under external load is proposed.

Keywords

• GRS retaining wall
• traffic load
• model test
• mechanical properties
• geogrid strain