Centrifugal and finite element modelling of reinforced embankments on soft clay

The behaviour of reinforced embankment on soft clay is explored using centrifugal as well as finite element modelling with particular emphasis on the depth of the clay foundation. In the finite element analyses, the stress-induced anisotropic behaviour of the clay foundation was modelled. The experimental and numerical results were found to be in close agreement with each other. Lateral displacements, excess pore pressures and tension in the reinforcement for a deep clay foundation was found to be much more widespread compared to that for a shallow clay foundation for which it was localised underneath the slope of the embankment. The magnitude of maximum tension induced in the reinforcement was found to be only of the order of lateral thrust in the embankment but even such small tension was sufficient to prevent the failure of the embankment.