TxDOT Research Library - TxDOT Research Project Details

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Pullout Resistance of Mechanically Stabilized Earth Reinforcements in Backfills Typically Used in Texas

Project No.:

0-6493

Performing Institution(s):

Center for Multidisciplinary Research in Transportation (TechMRT)

Contacts:

RS: William (Bill) Lawson

Lead University:

TECH

Sponsor:

Summary:

This research study involves a comprehensive and detailed review of pullout resistance of backfill reinforcement used in mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls constructed in Texas. There are two major thrust areas in the proposed study: (a) evaluation of pullout resistance factors for specific backfill-reinforcement combinations used by Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), and (b) review and testing of typical reinforcement details used to circumvent vertical and horizontal obstructions. The research plan to accomplish the above research objectives relies heavily on a comprehensive, large-scale pullout test program. At the outset, the researchers will collect available information pertaining to pullout resistance and reinforcement detailing around obstructions and document them. Then the researchers will select specific backfill- reinforcement combinations and obstruction reinforcement details to be included in the test program. Once substantial data has been generated through testing, data analysis will begin. New reinforcement pullout resistance factors will be developed for conditions representative of TxDOT construction and the impact on their use in wall design will be evaluated. Data obtained from tests conducted on obstruction details will be used to identify optimum reinforcement configurations to address commonly encountered obstruction situations. Based on these findings guidelines will be developed for implementation of reinforcement details around obstructions. These guidelines will be refined based on review by industry representatives as well as through a field constructability review. Final products will include: a database of pullout resistance, a field guide (field manual) and necessary training material.

Publications:

Page:

Researcher:

Lawson, William D. (William Dieterich)

Index Terms:

Backfilling
Data collection
Pullout tests
Resistance (Mechanics)
Retaining walls
Shear reinforcement