Geocell Mattress Effects on Embankment Settlements

by Mark D. Evans, (M.ASCE), Northeastern Univ, Boston, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Vertical and Horizontal Deformations of Foundations and Embankments

Abstract:

Laboratory investigations and finite element analyses of geocell mattresses beneath embankments were performed to determine the effect of such mattresses in reducing settlements. Eight-foot (2.4-m) long by four-foot (1.2-m) wide by twelve-inch (0.3-m) high embankments were constructed of sand over a compressible foam-rubber foundation in the laboratory with and without geocell mattresses incorporated into the base. For the conditions tested, the geocell mattress reduced maximum settlements by about 30 percent. Finite element analyses were performed to determine (1) if the laboratory results could be reasonably predicted by analytical methods and (2) if analytical methods could be used to show the effect of geocell mattresses on embankment settlements. The finite element analyses agreed reasonably well with the observed settlement of laboratory embankments, both with and without geocell mattresses. Such analyses may be applicable for determining the response of full-scale field applications.

Subject Headings: Finite element method | Soil stabilization | Foundation settlement | Soil settlement | Structural settlement | Soil compression | Structure reinforcement

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