Modelling and Analysis of Geocell Reinforced Foundations

Faby Mole, P A and Saride, Sireesh (2013) Modelling and Analysis of Geocell Reinforced Foundations. Masters thesis, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad.

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Abstract

Geosynthetics, in the form of three dimensional geocell mattresses has emerged as a promising technique to improve the performance of foundations. This study pertains to the development of a mathematical formulation to predict the behaviour of footings (Strip and Circular footings) resting on geocell reinforced granular layer overlying soft soil. To obtain the approximate behaviour of the geocell reinforced system contact pressure distribution of the geocell reinforced bed was considered. The approach based on contact pressure distribution is demonstrative in understanding the pattern of bearing capacity improvement but for exact predictions of the same, numerical investigations using foundation models or experimental studies have to be conducted. Pasternak model was used to represent the geocell reinforced-footing system as it considers the material properties of geocell - subsoil system. Linear and nonlinear responses were considered to account for the behaviour at low and high settlements respectively. The predictions of the Pasternak model were found to hold good for lower range of settlements. The necessity of improvement of the model was understood since Pasternak model doesn’t account for the confining stresses that act on the geocell system from which it derives its major strength. Hence, the stress dependent behaviour was also analyzed later in the research to fully understand the behaviour of geocell reinforced systems. To check the efficiency and applicability of the proposed models the results were validated in several ways (Theoretical, numerical, experimental validation) which indicated good agreement.

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