Shallow foundations

• 6.1.

  Introduction

• 6.2.

  Reinforcing mechanisms and functions

• 6.3.

  Reinforcing patterns

• 6.4.

  Modes of failure

• 6.5.

  Model tests

• 6.6.

  Load-bearing capacity analysis

• 6.7.

  Settlement analysis

• 6.8.

  Prestressed geosynthetic-reinforced foundations

• 6.9.

  Geosynthetic deflection profiles and strain analysis

• 6.10.

  Field applications

• 6.11.

  Summary of main points

• 6.12.

  Some common questions and their answers

• References

Geosynthetic-reinforced foundation soils are used to support several structures such as footings, pavements, embankments and retaining walls. This chapter deals with various aspects of geosynthetic-reinforced foundation soils subjected to loads from loaded shallow footings, including reinforcing mechanisms and functions, reinforcing patterns, modes of failure, model test results, methods of analysis for load-bearing capacity and settlement, the concepts of prestressing, geosynthetic profiles and strain analysis, and some field applications.