Centrifuge and analytical modeling of counterweight retaining walls under translation mode

Abstract

Counterweight retaining walls (CRWs) are a variant of gravity-retaining walls that feature a pressure relief platform (RP) on the backfill side to reduce total earth pressure, offering a cost-effective option compared to traditional forms. However, the intricate interactions between CRWs and backfill, coupled with the lack of clear design guidelines, have restricted their use. This study examines the behavior of CRWs in translation mode using three different centrifuge model tests, each with varying fill heights. Observations show a slightly concave slip surface through the wall heel and a nearly planar slip surface extending from the edge of the RP to the back of the wall in an active limit state. Backfill movement can be classified into translation, sliding, and stable zones. Earth pressure distribution on the upper wall follows a trapezoidal pattern, whereas the pressure on the lower wall exhibits a triangular distribution. Earth pressure on the RP is approximately linear, peaking near the RP’s edge. Introducing a friction angle mobilization factor for the potential first slip surface improves accuracy in calculating earth pressure. The tests were replicated to validate the analytical model for earth pressure calculations, using the adaptive finite-element limit analysis method.