SHALLOW FOUNDATIONS ON GEOGRID-REINFORCED SAND

Laboratory model test results for the bearing capacity of strip and square foundations supported by sand reinforced with layers of geogrid are presented. On the basis of the present model test results, the bearing capacity ratios with respect to the ultimate bearing capacity (and at levels of limited settlement of the foundation) were determined. For practical design purposes, it appears that for strip foundations the bearing capacity ratio calculated on the basis of the ultimate bearing capacity is 1.7 times the bearing capacity ratio at limited levels of settlement. Similarly, for square foundations, the bearing capacity ratio with respect to the ultimate bearing capacity is about 1.45 times the bearing capacity ratio at limited levels of settlement.