Design methods for geosynthetic anchor trenches on the basis of true scale experiments and discrete element modelling

Abstract

Analytical models are proposed for analysing the mechanisms whereby geosynthetic anchors fail. The cases of run-out and L- or V-shaped anchor trenches are considered. An analytical expression is obtained for the tension that may be mobilized in the anchor as a function of the geometry and mechanical properties of the materials. Two hypotheses relating to the nature of the soil are taken into account, assuming failure either through relative slippage between the soil and the inclusion (cohesive soil) or by deformation of the anchoring soil mass (frictional soil). The proposed analytical formulations are compared with the numerical results of discrete-element simulations and with the experimental results of full-scale pullout tests. The results obtained show the validity of the proposed analytical formulations for designing anchors in trenches.Key words: geosynthetics, anchorage, pullout, design, failure, discrete elements.