Parametric study of retaining wall stability under variable head loads using PLAXIS 2D

Retaining walls are essential structures due to their cost and function, making their stability a critical concern, as failure from overturning or sliding can lead to significant damage. The design of these structures relies on various calculation methods, with numerical approaches providing greater accuracy in capturing soil behavior and the interaction between the wall and the ground. This study presents a bibliographical review of the principles and techniques used in the calculation of retaining walls, emphasizing the importance of precise modeling for ensuring their stability. The research focuses on the numerical modeling of a head-loaded reinforced concrete retaining wall to analyze the influence of key parameters on foundation bearing capacity and overall structural stability. A 5-meter-high wall with a 3.2-meter-wide base is modeled using PLAXIS 2D software, following a two-step approach: first, constructing the wall after excavating layers of sand and clay, and second, applying different load conditions of 10 kN/m², 100 kN/m², and 200 kN/m². The results provide valuable insights into the structural behavior of retaining walls under varying loads, contributing to improved design and safety practices.