Application of variable pitch reinforcement with horizontal geosynthetic elements in pads made from cohesive soils

Abstract

Abstract The paper is devoted to researching into the behaviour of reinforced pads made from cohesive soil. Compacted soft-plastic loam was considered as a pad material, and woven geotextile was used as an reinforcing element. The research was aimed at testing a well-known approach to the usage of a variable reinforcement pitch in cohesive soil pads. The goal was achieved by solving test problems for various types of reinforcement in the Plaxis 2D software package. Based on the results of the research, the formula for determining the arrangement of reinforcing layers at a variable reinforcement pitch in cohesive soil pads was adjusted. It was also found that when the layers were arranged at a pitch of 200 mm or less, the reinforcing effect in cohesive soils practically did not occur. In addition, it was confirmed that at a variable pitch of reinforcement, there was the most complete “inclusion of geosynthetic materials in work” in comparison with other considered cases of reinforcement.