Feasibility study of an earth-retaining structure using in-situ soil with dual sheet piles

Abstract

Classic braced walls use struts and wales to minimize ground movements induced by deep excavation. However, the installation of struts and wales is a time-consuming process and confines the work space. To secure a work space around the retaining structure, an anchoring system works in conjunction with a braced wall. However, anchoring cannot perform well when the shear strength of soil is low. In such a case, innovative retaining systems are required in excavation. This study proposes an innovative earth-retaining wall that uses in situ soil confined in dual sheet piles as a structural component. A numerical study was conducted to evaluate the stability of the proposed structure in cohesionless dry soil and establish a design chart. The displacement and factor of safety of the structural member were monitored and evaluated. According to the results, an increase in the clearance distance increases the depth of safe excavation. For a conservative design to secure the stability of the earth-retaining structure in cohesionless dry soil, the clearance distance should exceed 2 m, and the embedded depth should exceed 40% of the wall height. The results suggest that the proposed method can be used for 14 m of excavation without any internal support structure. The design chart can be used for the preliminary design of an earth-retaining structure using in situ soil with dual steel sheet piles in cohesionless dry soil.