Numerical analysis on the differential settlement of geosynthetic reinforced soil integrated bridge system

Abstract

Abstract Bump scenarios at the bridge approach frequently occur due to the differential settlement at the transition of the approach pavements and the bridge decks. The differential settlement between the approach roadway and the bridge deck is due to the greater consolidation settlement of the existing subsoil supporting the approach road relative to the foundation supporting the bridge deck. To overcome this problem, an economical method known as the geosynthetic reinforced integrated bridge system (GRS-IBS) is utilized. In this paper, a detailed description of the modelling approach to the GRS-IBS is presented. A validation analysis of the numerical model in terms of settlement, horizontal wall displacement, vertical pressure below the foundation, and lateral earth pressure shows good agreement with field observations. An analysis of the differential settlement of the GRS-IBS proves that it could eliminate the bump problems at the bridge approach. Then, further study was carried out to investigate the behaviour of GRS-IBS founded on soft soil. Finding shows that the bump formation for this system is out of tolerance. This finding aligns with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guides, in which the GRS-IBS are not suitable where highly compressible soil is encountered. Several recommendations for future studies are given at the end of this paper.