ABSTRACT
Shallow foundations are sometimes built on geosynthetic mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) structures. Such structures are extensively used to support bridge loads and to form approach roads. In recent years many studies provided chart-based solutions to calculate the ultimate bearing capacity of the foundations of MSE structures. Such solutions are provided for different combinations of geotechnical and geometric input parameters. However, such design charts cannot be implemented as part of automated workflows as they contain curves that need to be used on a case-by-case basis. This paper presents a novel method to calculate the seismic bearing capacity of a shallow foundation positioned on the crest of a geosynthetic reinforced soil structure. Such approach is based on a predictive mathematical expression that can be readily used and implemented as part of performance-based design approaches. It relies upon a database of solutions obtained using the upper-bound limit analysis. The proposed expression is valid for static and seismic conditions. Examples are presented illustrating the implementation of this method as part of design procedures of selected foundation systems.
