Inspection and Maintenance Guidelines for Mechanically Stabilized Earth Walls

This report outlines the results of a comprehensive study focused on enhancing maintenance and inspection practices for mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls. The project was sponsored by the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), and its central objectives were to formulate the best management practices for MSE wall maintenance and develop a comprehensive inspector’s guidebook. To address a gap in the existing literature, the research focused on creating a manual that provides inspection procedures, maintenance guidance, and repair strategies to mitigate distress signs such as panel movement, cracking, and backfill material loss. The methodology encompassed a thorough review of documented MSE wall issues, a nationwide survey yielding insights from 44 state Departments of Transportation, consultations with MSE wall manufacturers, and hands-on site inspections in Arkansas. These efforts were instrumental in creating a geographic information system database cataloging ARDOT's MSE walls, informed by both the survey findings and expert consultation. The resultant maintenance inspector’s guidebook presents a step-by-step inspection framework, grading for distress severity, and tailored repair recommendations. This guidebook was piloted with assistance from ARDOT and was updated as needed to ensure smooth implementation into current maintenance practices within the agency. The project’s multi-faceted approach ultimately seeks to enhance the longevity and reliability of the MSE wall infrastructure and serve as a pivotal resource for maintenance personnel.

• Record URL:
  • https://ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/TRC2104_Final_Report.pdf
• Record URL:
  • https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/88720
• Corporate Authors:

  Arkansas Department of Transportation

  Little Rock, AR  United States 

  University of Arkansas

  Department of Civil Engineering
  4190 Bell Engineering
  Fayetteville, AR  United States  72701
• Authors:
  • Barry, Michelle L
  • 0000-0002-0947-5307
  • Coffman, Richard
  • 0000-0002-7934-8266
  • Feng, Ruimin
  • 0000-0001-9184-2702
• Publication Date: 2024-12

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Edition: Final Report
• Features: Appendices; Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 96p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Best practices; Earth walls; Guidelines; Inspection; Maintenance management; Mechanically stabilized earth
• Identifier Terms: Arkansas Department of Transportation
• Geographic Terms: Arkansas
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Geotechnology; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01977783
• Record Type: Publication
• Contract Numbers: TRC2104
• Files: NTL, TRIS, STATEDOT
• Created Date: Jan 28 2026 9:48AM