Effect of Geocell Type on Load-Carrying Mechanisms of Geocell-Reinforced Sand Foundations

In this study, a series of model tests has been carried out to develop an understanding of the influence of the geocell material on the load-carrying mechanism of the geocell-reinforced sand foundations under strip loading. Geocells of different types were prepared using geogrids of different types. The parameters studied are as follows: the footing load-settlement response, deformation on the fill surface, strain in the geocell, pressure transmitted to the subgrade soil underlying the geocell mattress, and load dispersion in the geocell mattress. The test results indicate that the strength, stiffness, aperture opening size, and orientation of the rib of the geocell material influence the performance of the reinforced-sand foundation bed. Geocells made of geogrids of higher strength, relatively smaller size aperture opening, and ribs of orthogonal orientation give better performance improvement. (C) 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers.