Two-dimensional finite element analysis of laboratory embankment model

Abstract

Two-Dimensional finite element analysis was used to investigate the performance of embankment construction over weak subgrade soil using artificial base layer material consisted of cemented sand cushion comprising geosynthetics materials. Two types of base layer materials pure sand and cemented sand comprising husk rich ash and two types of geosynthetics materials geogrid and geotextile were used. Constitutive models were used to represent different materials in numerical analysis. The competence of two-dimensional numerical analysis was compared with experimental results. Numerical results showed a superior harmony with the experimental results. Finite element analysis model proved to be a great tool to determine the parameters that are difficult to measure in laboratory experiments. In addition, finite element analysis has the benefit of cost and time saving when compared to experimental investigation work. Numerical results showed strain induced in geosynthetics eliminated beyond a distance approximately equal six times of footing width. © 2008 Science Press Beijing and Springer-Verlag GmbH Berlin Heidelberg Geotechnical Engineering for Disaster Mitigation and Rehabilitation.