Numerical Analysis of Geogrid and Deep Mixing Column Supported Embankment

Abstract

Embankment is an essential component of civil engineering constructions. It is required for the implementation of many projects such as roads, railways, and dams. However, large deformations and lateral movements may occur due to the poor mechanical properties of the weak soils. To avoid that, the subgrade must be improved. One of the efficient and economic techniques that solve these problems is the column-supported embankment system. In this paper, a numerical model of the embankment was established using (ABAQUS) software program. Three different modes were studied to explain the behavior of these embankments. A parametric study was conducted to examine the various influencing factors, such as elastic modulus of columns, the effect of the geogrid layer on the performance of embankment, the settlements, the lateral movement, the shear strength of the soil, the stress concentration ratio, the soil arching ratio, and the tension force in geogrid layer were determined and analyzed for various embankment modes. The results show that the effect of the elastic modulus of columns plays a vital role in the performance of the embankment. Similarly, the geogrid layer also has significant effects on the lateral displacement, and the shear strength of the embankment. In general, for all modes, the decrease in the elastic modulus of the columns leads to an increase in the embankment loads that carried out by the soil between the columns. While, the absence of the geogrid layer leads to an increase in the embankment loads carried by columns.