Model test and numerical simulation on rigid load shedding culvert backfilled with sand

For reducing embankment load on box culvert, a new culvert structure called load shedding culvert (LSC) is proposed. First, model tests were conducted to investigate the performance of LSC, which was compared with embankment-installation box culvert (EBC) and imperfect-trench-installation box culvert (IBC). Then, numerical simulations were performed to investigate the stress states of the three culvert structures and associated important influencing factors. This study reveals that the LSC, compared with EBC and IBC, can not only reduce the vertical earth pressure on the top slab but also reduce the horizontal earth pressure on the culvert sidewall.