Failure Plane on Precast Block Retaining Wall

Abstract

Rankine's theory stated that the soil failure plane behind the monolith retaining wall is a linear equation and is applied similarly to the plane of precast block retaining walls. However, the actual failure plane in the field may differ from the theory. This research is done to determine the plane of soil failure behind a precast block retaining wall using wall modeling tests in the laboratory. Several stages for laboratory tests are carried out. Starting with making a precast block retaining wall with the planned dimensions, then a failure test is carried out by giving variations and adding loads in stages. The plane and pattern of failure from recorded laboratory tests. The failure shape is analyzed to obtain the mathematical equation. The shape of the failure obtained from the analysis is in the form of an S curve, with a power three polynomial function. Furthermore, the total area of the failure land is calculated. When compared with the results of the analysis using Rankine's theory equation, it is found that the area of the failure soil from the laboratory test of the precast block retaining wall is smaller, while the length of the failure of the soil is longer. The altitude simulation is continued based on the obtained mathematical model.