ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a set of cross curves of stability to design drystone retaining walls. Drystone is an ancient, vernacular technique of construction consisting in interlocking rough or cut pieces of stones together, without mortar. Experimental data are needed in order to validate and calibrate the model. Experiments consist in four self-standing drystone walls, built by professional craftsmen, and backfilled until failure by a cohesionless soil. Professional rules establish the precepts which govern drystone construction, and are necessary to comply with the assumptions of the model previously exposed or ensure a long lifetime. Drystone is made of rubble stone and does not present a perfectly regular pattern, unlike traditional stone or brick masonry. Drystone masonry is particularly relevant for retaining structures as it enables the water flow. In order to facilitate this flow, and extend the service life of these structures, good practice recommends placing small pieces of stone between the wall and the backfill.
