Choice of allowable long-term strains for reinforced embankments on a rate-sensitive foundation

ABSTRACT: The time-dependent behavior of reinforced embankments constructed over rate-sensitive soils is examined for different maximum allowable long-term reinforcement strains using finite element analysis. The long-term service height, lateral toe spreading, maximum differential settlement and maximum settlement of reinforced embankments are examined. The viscoelastic nature of geosynthetic reinforcement is considered. Various factors affecting the performance of reinforced embankments on rate-sensitive soil are investigated: soil viscosity, reinforcement type and construction rate. Based on a series of finite element analyses, the ideal allowable long-term reinforcement strains that control the embankment deformations to modest levels while maximizing the long-term service height of reinforced embankments, considering the combined effect of soil and reinforcement viscosity, are suggested.

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