Numerical Analysis of Behavior of Geo-Synthetically Reinforced Slopes Under Seismically Active Conditions

Abstract

Slopes are the unsupported inclined soil mass. Stability of slopes has always been a governing factor for carrying out construction on slopes. Both static and dynamic loads can cause failure to a slope yet there are considerate methods to determine the bearing capacity and factor of safety for slopes under static loads while as dynamic loads specifically earthquake loads are generally unpredictable. This paper checks effect of installation of geogrid layers in soil slopes under seismic loads. This study has been carried out using Finite Element Based Software PLAXIS incorporating CD-ROM (SMC) file of WNW OF FERNDALE, CA on 10^th March 2014.The model was scaled as 1x .5 x .5 m with slope angle of 32^? and a model footing of 50 mm which was loaded suitably. During the  study numerical results of deformation compared with experimental results. It was found that addition of geogrid layers enhanced the factor of safety upto appreciable extent. Optimum depth and optimum number of geogrid layers were also determined. The percentage increase in factor of safety at different levels of installation was also recorded.