Field monitoring and analyses of the response of a block-faced geogrid wall using fine-grained tropical soils

This paper presents the results of a 4.2 m high instrumented section of block-faced geogrid wall built using fine-grained tropical soils as backfill. Laboratory tests were used to assess the soil resistance and the stress–strain behavior is reported. Monitoring was performed over two months, including the construction period, and indicated good performance. Reinforcement tension was measured at different locations in four different layers. A specific device was designed and used to monitor vertical and horizontal internal loads on blocks that comprised the wall face. Topography, inclinometers, and magnetic settlement plates were used to measure internal and external movements. Total pressure cells at five different locations near the foundation level measured vertical stresses. Analytical and finite element method analyses were carried out and the predicted and measured tension in the reinforcements and lateral movements are compared. In addition, the significance of soil matrix suction, induced stress due to backfill soil compaction, shear resistance parameters, on the wall block facing is discussed.