ABSTRACT
Numerical analyses, especially using the finite element method, provide a more fundamental understanding of GEC behavior through parametric studies to investigate the influence of the input parameters, which were mostly verified with experimental investigations. This chapter presents the model configuration, calculation steps, and results of the numerical analyses, thus the applicability and limitations of each model are discussed. Comparison of field data and the results of finite element analysis show that 2D axisymmetric analysis gave a satisfactory estimation of the total vertical stresses, particularly at midpoints between the columns. In general, the geosynthetic-equivalent friction angle used in the plane strain analysis appears to be a suitable approach for settlement estimation of the test embankment over GEC for the section crossing the embankment centerline. The stability analysis was conducted using the original column friction angle and the equivalent friction angle to assess the encasement influence on the factor of safety of the test embankment.
