Numerical investigation of the three-dimensional performance of anchored reaction blocks in stability of excavations in clayey soils

A three-dimensional finite element analysis has been employed to investigate the effect of key components in the performance of anchored reaction block (ARB) systems. The ARB walls are made up of discrete, anchored concrete blocks placed in a pattern on a vertical soil cut to increase the stability of retained soil. The complete staged construction of ARB system was simulated in the numerical model. The data obtained from the case history of Moshir Shopping Centre have been used to calibrate the numerical model through a back-analysis approach. The predicted and measured load-displacement curves were found to be matched perfectly using linear elastic perfectly plastic Mohr-Coulomb soil model. The optimum dimensions of reaction blocks and the spacing between them in various clayey soils and different anchor design loads have been proposed. Finally, owing to the three-dimensional model, the effect of the corner of an excavation on the lateral displacement of ARB walls has been studied.