Interaction mechanisms in small-scale model MSE walls under the strip footing load

The effect of preloading on mechanically stabilised earth (MSE) has remained an aspect difficult to quantify in design, particularly when considering different reinforcement types, stiffness values, and facing rigidity. This study analyses several scaled model tests MSE walls under a strip footing load with single unloading-reloading cycle. Scaled models were constructed as part this investigation expand the evaluation previously full-scale tests. wall deflections measured compared analytical models. failure mechanism soil, before after load, was included via particle image velocimetry (PIV) method. results indicate that bearing capacity is higher for rigid than flexible facing. PIV analysis first second loading step formed two lines angle (?/4 + ?/2). deflection values step, however, smaller those reached during small-scale Good agreement observed between proposed method experimental taking into account effect.