Analysis of failure of flexible geocell-reinforced retaining walls in the centrifuge

ABSTRACT: Since the 1980s, flexible geocell-reinforced retaining walls have been used more frequently for slope protection as an alternative to conventional retaining structures. The benefits of these geocell structures include light weight, rapid construction, cost-effectiveness, ecological protection and landscape enhancement. However, the deformation mechanisms and failure modes of geocell-reinforced retaining walls are often complicated, thereby restricting their use in engineering practice. The differences in failure behaviour between geocell-reinforced and rigid-facing retaining walls need to be identified. In the present study, a series of centrifuge model tests on retaining walls reinforced by geocells were performed. The tests varied with respect to aspect ratio (the reinforcement length to the height of the wall) and the slope inclination (horizontal to vertical). The experimental results indicate that the critical failure surface is a non-linear shape that passes through the toe of the wall and...

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