Abstract: Geosynthetic reinforcement are placed in soil below footings in order to improve the bearing capacity and to improve the properties of weak soil. In general, soils possess a low tensile strength. The main objective of strengthening the soil mass is to increase bearing capacity improve stability and decreased settlements and lateral deformations. One of the approaches is the use of polymeric materials. Geosynthetic is a well-known technique in soil reinforcement. In almost every application, the common trend is to place the reinforcement in horizontal layers. Theoretically, for the reinforcement to be effective, it must pass through the tensile arc. Hence the ideal pattern for reinforcement will be horizontal below the footing and becomes progressively more vertical further away from the footing. This paper presents the results of finite element analyses carried out to evaluate the effect of pattern of reinforcement on the axial forces on geogrid and stress distribution at the interface of geogrid and sand. The results of finite element analyses are validated by carrying out a series of Laboratory Scale Load Tests. It is observed that the pattern of reinforcement significantly influences the axial force on geogrid and stress distribution at the interface between sand and geogrid.

Keywords: Geosynthetic; Tensile Arc; Finite Element Analyses; Foundation Bed; Weak Soil.