Continuum Modeling and Analysis of Polymeric Sheet Reinforcement Subjected to Axial Pull

Stability of reinforced soil structures depends on the soil–reinforcement interaction. Continuum modeling of polymeric sheet reinforcement–backfill interaction when subjected to axial pull at one end of the reinforcement is presented. Analysis is carried out by FLAC, soil is modeled as linear elastic material and reinforcement as cable elements. Displacements of reinforcement are quantified for different pullout forces. Variations of displacement and tension along the reinforcement length are presented. Effect of axial stiffness of reinforcement, soil–reinforcement interface shear stiffness and length of reinforcement are quantified. For a given pullout load the displacement of reinforcement decreases with increase of interface shear stiffness, axial stiffness of reinforcement and length of reinforcement. Results of the present numerical model compare closely with other mechanical models and pullout tests.