Contributions to Géotechnique 1948–2008: Retaining structures

Retaining structures and earth support systems form an important part of geotechnical engineering. In the first 60 years of Géotechnique, some 110 publications have appeared that related to such structures. These are discussed in this review under five headings: case histories and full-scale observations; ground movements associated with retaining structures; numerical analyses; compaction stresses acting on structures; and Symposia in Print. Individual comments are made on approximately half of the papers published, highlighting key contributions to the advancement of the understanding of retaining structures. Many of the papers have provided important information subsequently incorporated into standard reference documents for geotechnical engineers, notably three reports published by the Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA): Temporary propping of deep excavations: Guidance on design; The observational method in ground engineering: Principles and applications; and Embedded retaining walls: Guidance for economic design. In this way, and through the contributions of individual papers to other aspects of performance, Géotechnique has made a valuable contribution to the improved analysis, engineering design, construction and monitoring of retaining structures.