Assessment of Circular Cavity in Concrete Gravity Retaining Wall

Abstract

Design of Gravity retaining wall cross-section is a trial and error process and it is determined using prescribed conditions of stability. The stresses developed along the cross section of wall are very low and hence material strength of cross-section remains unutilized. The gravity retaining wall cross-section can be effectively utilized and also structural performance of the cross section can be enriched by introducing cavity in the section. An attempt is made by introducing circular cavity in the cross-section of gravity retaining wall and stresses developed along the cross-section are calculated. The stresses induced in the cross section with and without cavity are compared in this study. The effect of circular cavities at two different locations on stresses distribution along the cross section is worked out.