The effects of foundation width on model tests for the bearing capacity of sand with geogrid reinforcement

Abstract

Laboratory model test results for the ultimate bearing capacity of surface strip foundations on geogrid-reinforced sand and unreinforced sand are presented. A fine uniform sand and one type of geogrid (Tensar BX1000(SSO)) were used for the tests. The width of the foundation and the relative density of sand were varied to determine their effects on the bearing capacity ratio. It was found that the bearing capacity ratio of the sand-geogrid system decreased with an increase in foundation width. However, above a certain foundation width (130–140 mm) a practically constant value of bearing capacity ratio was observed.