Design Considerations for Soil-Nailed Walls and Slopes

Author: Gian Paulo D. Reyes, Regine Chloe S. Albea, Jenna Carmela C. Pallarca, John Erickson S. Delos Santos, Michael Paolo V. Follosco (MSCE), Roy Anthony C. Luna (MSCE), Ramon D. Quebral (PhD) and Benjamin R. Buensuceso, Jr. (PhD)

Presenter: John Erickson B. Delos Santos

The utilization of soil nails can be a cost-effective solution to stabilize cut slopes or grade-separated roads and highways. This involves a passive steel reinforcement encased in grout and a shotcrete or concrete cover applied on the slope or excavation face to provide continuity. Soil nail derives its strength by mobilizing the bond strength between the grout and the surrounding soil. This technique is applicable to both soil and soil-like materials such as soft rocks or weathered rocks.

In the absence of local codes and specifications governing the design and construction of soil nails, the provisions of US Federal Highways Administration (FHWA) can be adopted.

This paper presents the various considerations in the stability analysis and design of soil-nailed walls and slopes. Modeling and analysis using limit-equilibrium approach are discussed. Case studies involving a grade-separated road project, and a steep soil slope are presented.

Conference/s:

2015 PICE National Midyear Convention, Lanang, Davao City (May 2015)

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