Effect of foundation yielding on performance of two-tier geosynthetic-reinforced segmental retaining walls: a numerical investigation

This paper presents the results of an investigation into the effect of foundation yielding on the performance of two-tiered geosynthetic-reinforced segmental retaining walls using a calibrated plane-strain finite element model. Variables considered in this study include the offset distance and reinforcement distribution. The results indicate among other things that an unexpected foundation yielding may affect both the internal and external stability of the lower tier owing to the absence of toe resistance. Also revealed is the finding that the upper-tier reinforcement length has a significant influence on the lower-tier lateral deformation. Design implications and findings from this study are discussed.