Numerical simulation of an instrumented cantilever retaining wall

The field data of an instrumented cantilever retaining wall are reexamined to develop a working hypothesis for the mechanism that explains the observed response. The field data are in terms of earth pressures and wall movements (deflection, translation, and rotation) from the start to completion of backfilling. The observed response demonstrates strong interaction between the retaining wall and foundation soil. Traditional calculations based on earth pressure coefficients had not provided a satisfactory explanation for the measured responses during placement of backfill. In this paper, the working hypothesis, and results from its implementation in a continuum-mechanics-based computer program are presented. The numerical model results, displacements and earth pressures, are in general agreement with the field data for all stages of backfill placement and provide a clear exposition to the observed response. Practical implications of the work are included.