Recent Advances in Metallic and Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil Walls: A Review

Abstract

AbstractSoil reinforcement is defined as a method to enhance the engineering characteristics of the soil. In the last few decades, the construction of reinforced earth walls in various scenarios has gained importance due to its flexibility, economy, and ease of construction. Various reinforcing elements were used since inception. Metallic reinforcements were used in the construction of early reinforced earth walls. Due to the corrosion of metal reinforcements over a period of time, geosynthetic reinforcements have gained importance as an alternative. Several analytical, numerical, and experimental research works and many case studies on both corrosion in metallic reinforced earth walls and the development toward geosynthetic reinforced earth walls were performed. In the present study, an attempt has been made to provide an insight into the recent developments and to present an overview of these advances. A critical literature review of corrosion in metallic reinforced earth walls and advancement toward geosynthetic retaining walls was conducted, focusing on compaction-induced stresses and geosynthetic reinforced soil bridge abutments. Gaps in research in both metallic and geosynthetic retaining walls were identified, and future scope for research is briefed.KeywordsReinforced soil wallCorrosionGeosyntheticsCompaction-induced stressesGRS bridge abutment