Numerical investigation of the geosynthetic reinforced soil-integrated bridge system under static loading

This paper presents numerical simulations of the performance of the Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil-Integrated Bridge System (GRS-IBS) under static loading conditions. Simulations were conducted using a finite-difference program and realistic conditions for system geometry, backfill soil, geosynthetic reinforcement, and applied loads. Simulation results, including lateral facing displacements, settlements, lateral and vertical earth pressures, and reinforcement tensile strains and forces, indicate good performance of GRS-IBS during construction and under traffic loads. A parametric study was conducted to investigate the effects of backfill soil compaction, reinforcement length, reinforcement stiffness, bearing bed reinforcement, bridge seat setback distance, bridge load, and abutment height on the performance of GRS-IBS. Results indicate that reinforcement stiffness, bridge load, and abutment height have the most significant influences on lateral facing displacements and bridge seat settlements. Differential settlements between the bridge and approach roadway were small for all conditions.