Effects of Backfill Soil on Excessive Movement of MSE Wall

AbstractThe use of mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) retaining walls has gained popularity as an alternative to conventional cast-in-place concrete walls. The construction of MSE walls is cost effective, requires less site preparation, and is technically more feasible compared with conventional concrete retaining walls. However, use of backfill with high fine content and poor drainage behavior can cause excessive wall movement or even failure. The current paper presents the case study of a MSE wall located at State Highway 342 in Lancaster, Texas. The top of the MSE wall has moved as much as 300–450 mm only 5 years after construction. An extensive site and laboratory investigation testing program was conducted to determine the possible causes of the MSE wall movement. The site investigation included soil test boring and resistivity imaging (RI). Perched water zones were identified at a few locations in the backfill area using RI. The bulging of the MSE wall facings was observed where the perched water z...