Experiences from the High Geotextile Reinforced Retaining Wall – Case Study

Abstract

Paper describes experiences obtained during the construction of high soil reinforced retaining wall. Such walls are now used during the foundation of large logistic and distribution centres on inclined terrain. First problems appeared roughly 2 years after the wall construction, when wide tensile cracks on the fill surface were observed behind the zone of reinforcement. First step of problem evaluation showed that this crack is connected to wall overturning. Therefore the reconstruction was recommended, upper part was removed and constructed under new evaluation of all relevant limit states and design situations. Phase of reconstruction was monitored and was used as an approval of the safe design. Experiences obtained during all described phases create an important know-how for next similar applications.