Model studies on behavior of interlocking modular block retaining wall subjected to static footing loading

Abstract

Segmental retaining wall (SRW) systems are commonly and successfully used in a wide range of applications. It is constructed from dry-stacked concrete blocks that are usually connected through concrete shear keys and rely on the unit-to-unit interface and self-weight to resist sliding and overturning. The system may also employ geosynethtic reinforcement to construct reinforced segmental retaining walls (RSWs). The popularity of SRWs can be attributed to a combination of reduced construction costs, ease of installation, versatility and aesthetic appearance. In addition to these inherent advantages, there exits a variety of concrete blocks available on the market, which also lead to a popularity of the segmental retaining wall systems. However, according to literature review, the behavior of the wall related to the footing condition and block-block interlocking shear resistance has not been fully understood. In response to these concerns, fifteen groups of model tests in 1-g condition had been conducted in this study. Through this research project, it has been confirmed that adding foundation footing can significantly increase the wall performance. In addition, the block-block interface shear resistance also affects the performance of both the conventional segmental retaining wall systems and the reinforced segmental retaining wall systems. Numerical analysis is further reported in chapter four, the results from numerical analysis is proved reasonable comparing with the model tests results.

Date of Award	2018
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology