Effect of Reinforced Soil Foundation on the Behavior of Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil-Integrated Bridge System: A Numerical Analysis

Abstract

Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil-Integrated Bridge System (GRS-IBS) provides a seamless alternative to traditional bridges by eliminating the need to provide expansion joints and bearings, also enhancing stability by addressing issues such as differential settlement between the bridge and integrated approach. Most of the available studies focus on the behavior of GRS-IBS considering a wide range of backfill and reinforcement properties. This study presents a numerical study of the behavior of GRS-IBS considering with and without reinforced soil foundation (RSF) considering both loose and very stiff granular foundation soils. The GRS-IBS model was developed in ABAQUS consisting of a 5-meter-high GRS abutment with segmental face blocks, reinforced using geosynthetic material placed at vertical spacing of 0.2 meters. The properties of granular backfill materials and foundation soil were simulated using the Mohr- Coulomb constitutive models, while the geosynthetic material and facing blocks were modeled using a linear elastic approach. The results showed that the RSF bed on existing loose foundation soil significantly affects the behavior of GRS-IBS; while a minimum effect was observed when RSF bed was placed over an already stiff foundation soil. The results are quantified in terms of lateral deformations, reinforcement tensile strains, and bridge seat settlement for different cases considered in the study.