José Leitão Borges

OVERALL STABILITY OF GEOSYNTHETIC- REINFORCED EMBANKMENTS ON SOFT SOILS

Abstract Overall stability of geosynthetic-reinforced embankments on soft soils is analysed using two different methodologies: application of a numerical model based on the finite element method; use of a limit equilibrium method. These two methodologies are described and also applied on three geosynthetic-reinforced embankments on soft soils. One of the cases is a case history constructed up to failure. Considering the analysis of the results, some conclusions are formulated on the limit equilibrium method accuracy, namely regarding the critical slip surface, overall safety factor and overturning and resisting moments.

Structural behaviour and parametric study of reinforced embankments on soft clays

Abstract Geotechnical behaviour of a reinforced embankment on soft ground is studied by a numerical model based on the finite element method. Special emphasis is given to the stress states (stress levels and pore pressures), displacements, tensile forces in the geosynthetic and overall stability, during and after construction. The influence of some parameters, namely geosynthetic stiffness and viscosity, embankment width and construction sequence, is also analysed. Several conclusions are obtained.

Strutted Excavation in Soft Soil Incorporating a Jet-Grout Base Slab: Analysis Considering the Consolidation Effect

The influence of the consolidation on a strutted excavation in soft soil is analysed using a computer code based on the finite element method. A base jet-grout slab is considered in order to improve stability against bottom heave failure and minimize wall displacements. The numerical model incorporates the Biot consolidation theory (coupled formulation of the flow and equilibrium equations) with soil constitutive relations simulated by the p–q–θ critical state model. Special emphasis is given to the analysis, during and after the construction period, of the pore pressures, shear stresses, stress levels and displacements in the ground, as well as strut compression loads, wall displacements and bending moments, earth pressures on the wall faces and compression loads and bending moments on the jet-grout slab. The safety factor against bottom heave is also evaluated from the finite element analysis considering formulations of the critical state soil mechanics, and also compared to values obtained with traditional methods that use limit equilibrium approach and bearing capacity fundamentals.