Failure Analysis of a Bridge Embankment with Cracked Approach Slabs and Leaking Sand

This paper describes a successful failure analysis to determine the causes of loss of backfill sand from a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall, and cracks on the concrete approach slabs on top of it. The Texas Department of Transportation was concerned that the cracks on the approach slabs may be related to the excessive loss of backfill from behind the MSE walls, and that the embankment structure may be unsafe due to potential voids under the concrete slab. Several cubic meters of sugar sand had washed out of the wall and deposited adjacent to the paneled walls. A series of destructive and nondestructive tests were carried out to determine the causes of the problems. It was found that the cracking of the approach slab and the loss of backfill were unrelated. Suggestions for resolving both problems were made based on this study.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/08873828
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Abstract reprinted with permission from the American Society of Civil Engineers
• Authors:
  • Chen, Dar-Hao
  • Nazarian, Soheil
  • Bilyeu, John
• Publication Date: 2007

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; Photos; References;
• Pagination: pp 375-381
• Serial:
  • Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
  • Volume: 21
  • Issue Number: 5
  • Publisher: American Society of Civil Engineers
  • ISSN: 0887-3828
  • Serial URL: http://ascelibrary.org/toc/jpcfev/27/1

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridges; Cracking; Embankments; Failure analysis; Leakage; Mechanically stabilized earth; Sand; Trench backfill
• Uncontrolled Terms: Approach slabs
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Highways; I53: Construction of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01080009
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Oct 25 2007 10:26AM