A nonlinear optimization model on the reinforcement length of a modular block wall by varying surcharge and soil strength parameters

Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, Thailand

^* Corresponding author : vuttich@hotmail.com

Abstract

This study proposes a nonlinear optimization approach in designing a modular block wall which is atype of the mechanical stabilized earth wall. A nonlinear optimization model is proposed based on minimizing the reinforcement length where the constraints considered are the external stability and the internal stability. Theoptimum reinforcement length can be determined based on available soil strength parameters and the maximum surcharge. This study also includes the parametric study of the reinforced soil, retained soil, and foundation soil by varying the ranges of the wall height, surcharge, and soil strength parameters in density and friction angle to see the behaviours of the aforementioned external stability and internal stability. This can be beneficial in designing thismodular block wall encountering a poor soil condition or a large amount surcharge.