Soil-structure interaction of induced trench culverts
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Date
2021-10
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University of New Brunswick
Abstract
This dissertation investigates the earth loads acting on culverts constructed with the induced trench construction method. Experimental, analytical, and numerical techniques are employed to investigate three independent sub-topics: 1) a full-scale induced trench twin culvert structure is instrumented with state-of-the-art instrumentation to experimentally monitor it’s field performance; 2) a new theoretical formulation based on observed inclined shear planes is developed to quantify the vertical earth pressure acting on induced trench culverts; and 3) finite element modeling is employed to assess the distribution of earth pressure acting around the circumference of induced trench circular culverts. The general conclusions of each study include: 1) the vertical earth pressure acting on the crown of culverts constructed with the induced trench construction method is shown to be effectively reduced as a result of embankment deformation and positive arching; 2) the proposed induced trench theoretical formulation is consistent with experimental findings and the results are shown to be in good agreement with numerical modeling and experimental data; and 3) the distribution of earth pressure acting on induced trench culverts differs significantly from that acting on positive projecting culverts. The induced trench construction method is shown to effectively reduce the earth loads acting on culverts constructed beneath high embankments; however, the effects of soil-structure interaction and positive arching must be considered during analysis and design of such structures. This dissertation advances the state of knowledge regarding the fundamental load transfer mechanism of positive arching and the induced trench construction method.
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FORESTRY, AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES and LANDSCAPE PLANNING::Soil science