The anatomy of soil arching

Abstract

The development of the soil arching theory has undergone numerous refinements based on technical advances through laboratory and field investigations, variations based on specific applications and the introduction of new technologies. During development, some aspects of the theory are sometimes overlooked as new ideas are presented. This paper attempts to present the arching phenomena in a step-by-step procedure or 'anatomy' and to address any misconceptions regarding the use of this theory in new applications. © 1994.