Experimental evaluation of flexible and rigid wall embankments supported by geocell foundations subjected to reverse faulting
Journal
Geotextiles and Geomembranes
Journal Volume
54
Journal Issue
5
Start Page
786
End Page
805
ISSN
02661144
Date Issued
2026-10
Author(s)
Abstract
This study conducted reduced-model tests on embankment and foundation systems subjected to reverse-fault movement. Measurement and image analysis techniques were used to capture the mechanical responses of geosynthetic-reinforced soil (GRS) and RC wall embankments overlying unreinforced and geocell foundations. The effectiveness of the geocell foundation in reducing fault-induced facing displacement, as well as its reinforcement mechanisms, was evaluated. The influence of reinforcement configuration on GRS embankment stability was also explored. Test results indicated that the RC wall embankment exhibited rigid-body sliding and overturning during reverse faulting, whereas the GRS embankment remained stable by accommodating lateral earth pressure through reinforced-soil deformation. The geocell mattress in the foundation effectively intercepted and dispersed fault-induced shear bands through the slab effect, thereby further reducing facing displacement. Extending the reinforcement length in the GRS embankment was also found to effectively decrease facing displacement. On the basis of the test results, a wrap-around GRS embankment overlying a geocell foundation is recommended as an effective mitigation measure for highway embankments subjected to reverse-fault movement. Such an embankment and foundation system can remain within the serviceability state under small to moderate earthquakes and within the ultimate limit state under strong earthquakes.
Subjects
Embankment
Facing displacement
Geocell
Geosynthetic
Reverse fault
Publisher
Elsevier Ltd
Type
journal article