General Theory on Earth Pressure and Seismic Stability of Retaining Wall and Dam

Abstract

Coulomb's theory is used to determine earth pressure when taking into account the cohesion of the earth. A general solution is presented for determining earth pressure when seismic force is considered. The seismic stability of a retaining wall and a gravity dam is examined. Recommendations for the ideal design of a retaining wall and examples for the new design of a quay wall are given. An appendix addresses the cause of the damage to the quay wall of Yokohama Harbor due to the September 1, 1923, Tokyo (Kanto), Japan, earthquake.