Upper-bound limit load of rigid pavements resting on reinforced soil embankments – Kinematic approach

Abstract

This study evaluates the influence of inclined ground on the ultimate load-carrying capacity of rigid concrete pavements laying on unreinforced and reinforced soil embankments. The solution procedure is developed based on the kinematic approach of the limit analysis. The carrying capacity is sequentially obtained by satisfying the energy principle of the upper-bound theorem alongside the associated flow rule. A multi-block collapse mechanism is assumed for the intended purpose, which is later optimized to obtain the proper upper-bound limit solution. The ultimate carrying capacity of the pavement is seen to be improved further by reinforcing the embankment and modifying the soil properties. The effect of individual parameters influencing the results is discussed in detail. The available bearing capacity theories developed for rigid foundations are invoked for validation and comparison to bolster the legitimacy of the present solution.