Mechanical Behavior of the Soil/Geosynthetic Interface Used in Earth Structures Based on a Pull-Out Test
Résumé
The use of geosynthetics as reinforcement materials has in the recent decade an enormous growth especially for stabilizing slopes and embankments. At present, many structures are subjected to the impact solicitations which are most often calculated with friction characteristics determined on static conditions, which is not realistic. There are many applications: protective earth structures of embankment type against rockfall, load-bearing walls subjected to vehicle impacts, maritime structures subjected to swells, rail traffic, etc. On this study; the characteristics of the soil/geosynthetic interface in earth structures reinforced by horizontal geosynthetics layers is highlighting. The pull-out test is the most commonly adopted method to study these parameters. A numerical study validated by an analytical approach has been used to better understanding the pull-out behavior of a geotextile layer anchored in a massive of sand based on a discrete/continuous coupling. Calculating SDEC code was used in particular to determine the relationship between the pull-out force and displacements at the soil/geotextile interface during the test. In this study, we will try to understand the parameters that influence the pull-out behavior and how the test conditions can influence the experimental results. From a general standpoint, the numerical modeling DEM used allows to correctly simulate the behavior of the soil/geotextile interface during a pull-out test by introducing friction laws and a tensile behavior law of the adequate geotextile layer. Considering high extraction rates, can easily be achieved on the numerical model which generates dynamic solicitations at the soil/reinforcement interface; on the face of it, it will lead to a more realistic dimensioning of the soil/geosynthetic interaction.