A Case Study of Efficient Solution for Very High Geogrid-Reinforced Retaining Wall

Abstract

Geogrid-reinforced earth walls are today’s state-of-the art for earth retaining and stabilization systems. They have proven efficient and durable with superior resistance to static, resilient and dynamic loads. Worldwide, many codified design procedures and experience are available. Beside their technical and economic advantages, they also have at least 30% lower carbon footprint than conventional walls or stabilizing systems, e.g. concrete retaining walls, coupled with a great advantage in terms of sustainability. Despite the formal design requirements, the systems are capable of adopting specific local conditions as terrain geometry, as well as aesthetic preferences, and are shown to be of high cost benefit compared to other types of structures. In these aspects, the type of the facing is of special interest as a major decision-making factor. Accordingly, a recently executed project in Saudi Arabia is described in the context mentioned above focusing on specific issues like geometry optimization, facing type, adaptation and some rare specific solutions as well as specific design requirement due to the significant wall height and value of adjacent structures. The provided solution is appropriate for different climates, including the harsh, humid and hot environment in the Middle East.