Chapter 66: Geotechnical design of grouted anchors

A grouted anchor is a form of ground anchor that relies on a grouted fixed length to generate resistance to applied prestressing forces. Grouted anchor technology can be employed to solve various problems in geotechnical and civil engineering. This includes anchors designed to resist sliding, overturning, dynamic loading, ground prestressing and direct tension.

Successful applications worldwide include structures subject to hydrostatic uplift such as tunnels, dock structures, stormwater tanks, tension loads imposed by suspension bridges, tension roof structures and cantilevered sports stadia. Grouted anchors can resist tension loads such as those exerted by transmission towers and wind farm turbines or destabilising forces such as sliding and overturning in concrete gravity dams. In addition, grouted anchors are commonly employed for the stabilisation of soil and rock slopes, landslides and cliffs. This chapter deals with the design of grouted anchors that provide restraint to many forms of retaining structures, including embedded retaining walls, gravity walls, deep excavation support incorporating diaphragm walls and even some forms of hybrid walls. It also covers general features concerning temporary and permanent anchors, load transfer mechanisms, tendon design and overall stability considerations.