Reinforcement efficiency of bearing capacity with geocell shape and filling materials

Abstract

To establish a standard for geocell reinforcement techniques, the aim of this paper was to analyze reinforcement efficiency and behavior as geocell dimensions and filling materials. Based on the result, the reinforcement of bearing capacity and stress distribution effect of the subgrade soil according to the increase of loading was analyzed in terms of the height, width, and shape of the geocell, as well as the types of filling materials. An evaluation of the bearing capacity based on a large-scale model test suggested that, with the maximum reinforcement, the ultimate bearing capacity increases by four to eight times in comparison to non-reinforced ground, while the largest ultimate bearing capacity is shown in 1:1.2 (width: height) when the geocell shape is filled with gravel and in 1:0.8 (width: height) when filled with weathered granite soil. Also, in reinforced ground, the maximum earth pressure decreases by 50% to 60% in comparison to unreinforced ground, due to the distribution of the lower stress due to the shallow foundation of the geocellreinforced layer.