Numerical investigation of reinforcement pullout resistance effects on behavior of geosynthetic-reinforced soil (GRS) piers

In this study, three-dimensional numerical analyses were carried out to investigate the effects of reinforcement pullout resistance including facing connection strength on behavior geosynthetic-reinforced soil (GRS) piers under a service load condition. Three different investigated in which simulated levels resistance. Each pier had two cases with stiffness J and spacing Sv but same ratio J/Sv. Numerical results showed that significant effect GRS piers. When mode prevailed, case small low smaller lateral displacements vertical strain applied pressure as compared large high when J/Sv was kept constant. did not prevail, similar performance despite combinations used. To more effectively mobilize improve performance, or high-strength should be considered sufficient cannot guaranteed otherwise.