Pseudo-static analytical formulation for seismic thrust on cantilever retaining walls in C-Φ soils considering double failure planes

Abstract This study proposes a pseudo-static analytical formulation for calculating the active thrust force on cantilever retaining walls under seismic loads. The formula incorporates the effects of soil cohesion and failure surface shape and is applied to short-heel and long-heel cantilever walls. The results are compared to classic analytical methods and a numerical model. The proposed formula provides a good representation of wall behavior under low to medium seismic loads, with an extended range compared to classical methods. However, using 100% of the peak ground acceleration (PGA) overestimates the active force for medium to strong earthquakes, so reduced PGA values are recommended. The formula accurately predicts the failure surface inclination, with an accuracy of approximately 10°. Soil cohesion has no significant effect on the failure mechanism, but the heel length influences its effect on active force reduction. Overall, the study offers an improved analytical approach for assessing the seismic response of cantilever retaining walls.