FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF THE ST. ALBAN TEST EMBANKMENTS

Finite element analyses were performed of three embankments on sensitive clay that were constructed to failure at St. Alban, Quebec. One of the embankments was reinforced with flat-tying Tensar SR2 geogrids, one was reinforced with a three-dimensional "foundation mattress" formed of geogrid strips linked together to form cells which were filled with sand, and the third embankment had no reinforcement. The results of the finite element analyses were in good agreement with the measured field behavior during early stages of construction, when the embankments were stable. Comparisons included settlements, horizontal movements, pore pressures, and forces in the reinforcement. In the later stage of construction, as the embankments approached failure, the agreement between the finite element analyses and the field measurements was not as good. The results are useful for assessing the reliability of finite element analyses for use in design of reinforced embankments on sensitive clays.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Features: Figures; References; Tables;
  • Pagination: p. 158-177

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00766659
  • Record Type: Publication
  • ISBN: 0872626482
  • Report/Paper Numbers: Geotechnical Special, Publication 18
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Jul 1 1999 12:00AM