Numerical investigation on performance of nail stabilised vertical cuts

Abstract

Soil nailing is an earth retention technique commonly used for stabilising steep slopes, retaining excavations and helps in maintaining the ground surface at two different elevations. Ease of installation, economic efficiency and effective performance of soil nailed structures under different loading conditions has resulted in the rapid use of the technique in different temporary and permanent construction applications. This study deals with the finite element analysis of 6 m and 10 m high vertical soil nailed walls to evaluate the performance under static loading. The characteristics of structures are evaluated under different nail inclinations, nail lengths and different site conditions. The response of soil nailed structures under different parameters are assessed with respect to maximum horizontal displacement of the wall, maximum axial force developed along the nail length and lateral earth pressure distribution on the nailed wall. An optimum nail inclination of 15° and nail length ratio of 0.7 has been identified as best suited for a stable vertical cut.