ABSTRACT
Geocells are three-dimensional interconnected polymeric cells filled with soil. 3D printing of geocells has several benefits including control on surface features and tensile strength of the geocells. This helps in controlled laboratory testing of scaled-down geocells and geocell reinforced soil to better quantify their performance benefits. In this study, laboratory-scale geocells of smaller dimensions and low strength were manufactured through 3D printing and ultrasonic welding and tested for their mechanical response. Polypropylene sheets were printed using Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) based 3D printer. These polypropylene sheets were then ultrasonically welded to form geocells. A horn and table mounting apparatus were designed to facilitate the welding of the sheets. The effects of angle of printing and speed of printing on material tensile strength and geocell-sand interface properties were studied. Results showed that angle of printing is the most influencing parameter on the mechanical properties of the geocells.
