Behavior of 3D-Reinforced Granular Trenches Under Cyclic Loading

Abstract

Reinforced soil has been successfully used in many geotechnical engineering applications where the soil as such is not strong enough to take up the loads. Many types of geosynthetics and fibers have been used as reinforcing elements. The study focuses on the use of multi-oriented reinforcements in improving the properties of the soil. Hexapods, horizontal–vertical orthogonal elements and 3D reinforcements are the three different types of 3D reinforcements used for soil stabilization. In the study, soil is reinforced with granular trenches that are reinforced with an optimum percentage of 3D inclusions. Triangular trenches having base width equal to twice the height (i.e., W/H = 2) are used for the study. Loads were applied through an automated and computer controlled hydraulic cyclic plate load testing equipment. Cyclic behavior of the reinforced soil is studied by conducting the tests at various amplitudes, i.e., 20, 40, 60 and 80% of ultimate static load. The frequency is maintained at 3 Hz. Similar study is carried out by varying the frequency, keeping the amplitude constant. It is seen that the reinforcements add an apparent cohesion to the cohesionless soil and also increase the angle of internal friction.