Predicted and measured loads using the coherent gravity method

The accuracy of the coherent gravity method was investigated using measurements reported in a large database of full-scale instrumented walls that was not available at the time the original method was developed. The new database includes data for bar mat, welded wire and steel strip reinforced walls. Measured reinforcement loads under operational conditions are compared with predicted values for bar mat and steel strip reinforced walls. The accuracy of the coherent gravity method as presented in the BS8006 design standard is quantified by computing the mean and coefficient of variation of the ratio (bias) of measured to predicted loads. The study shows that for steel strip walls the coherent gravity method is reasonably accurate for soils with friction angles less than 45degrees. For granular soils with higher friction angles and bar mat walls, the current coherent gravity method is shown to be less accurate and, on average, non-conservative for design. Modifications to the method as currently described in BS 8006 are proposed to improve the accuracy of the method for bar mat reinforced soil walls and steel strip reinforced soil walls with high friction angle backfill soils.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/17550750
• Authors:
  • BATHURST, R J
  • NERNHEIM, A
  • ALLEN, T M
• Publication Date: 2008-8

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 113-120
• Serial:
  • GROUND IMPROVEMENT (PROCEEDINGS OF THE ICE)
  • Volume: 161
  • Issue Number: GI3
  • ISSN: 1755-0750

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Calculation; Embankments; Forecasting; Loads; Measurement; Methodology; Reinforcing materials; Retaining walls; Steel
• ITRD Terms: 6464: Calculation; 2801: Embankment; 132: Forecast; 5567: Load; 6136: Measurement; 9102: Method; 3471: Reinforcement (in mater); 3359: Retaining wall; 4542: Steel
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Design; Geotechnology; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls; I51: Earthworks and Soil Drainage; I53: Construction of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01109606
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Transport Research Laboratory
• Files: ITRD
• Created Date: Aug 25 2008 8:47AM