Load-sharing mechanism and performance of geosynthetic-reinforced soil under external loading: a review

Abstract

ABSTRACT In recent years, the world population has steadily increased and substantially demands infrastructure development, so construction on even low-quality soil has become almost inevitable. Geosynthetic-reinforced solution has gained popularity for improving such soil properties because of its positive benefits. Crucial progress has been made till date using various laboratory analyses, numerical simulations, and analytical approaches to enhance its performance. However, researchers are still working on design optimisation. The current study focuses on various analysis methods and design aspects of geosynthetic-reinforced soil (GRS) that illustrate load-sharing mechanism and performance under externally applied load. The majority of research work around the globe is collected and thoroughly studied. Finally, the present research trends and future forecasts are deliberated. Past studies indicate that a) digital image correlation (DIC) technology provides a better understanding of the GRS failure mechanism, b) expanded polystyrene beads (EPS) emerging as a new subgrade infill material which significantly enhances damping behaviour of GRS in cyclic loading interface whereas fibreglass-geosynthetic a newer reinforcement material. It is evident from past studies that geosynthetic-reinforced solution is evolving as a promising ground improvement technique; hence, there exists an expansive scope for future research on GRS behaviour, including newer geosynthetics with resilience and sustainability factors.