The paper investigates the possibility of applying the genetic algorithm NSGA-II to optimize a reinforced concrete retaining wall embedded in saturated silty sand. Multi-objective constrained optimization was performed to minimize the cost, while maximizing the overdesign factors (ODF) against sliding, overturning, and soil bearing resistance. For a given change in ground elevation of 5.0 m, the width of the foundation and the embedment depth were optimized. Comparing the algorithm's performance in the cases of two-objective and three objective optimizations showed that the number of objectives significantly affects its convergence rate. It was also found that the verification of the wall against the sliding yields a lower ODF value than verifications against overturning and soil bearing capacity. Because of that, it is possible to exclude them from the definition of optimization problem. The application of the NSGA-II algorithm has been demonstrated to be an effective tool for determining the set of optimal retaining wall designs.

Abstract. The paper presents the comparison of results of CPTu, PMT, SPT and CH (crosshole) tests performed in stiff, heavily overconsolidated clay at a test location in Zagreb. This clay exhibits very high pore pressures generated during CPTu penetrations despite significant overconsolidation and relatively high values of shear strength and stiffness in its undisturbed, natural state. The clay is classified using the CPTu and CH test results in recently published soil classification charts based on the soil behaviour in (S)CPTu penetrations. The results of classifications indicate that the tested clay probably has a pronounced microstructure that is likely a consequence of the geological processes of cementation and aging. Effects of cementation and aging are manifested on very high shear wave velocities, as measured in cross-hole seismic tests, and consequently very high values of the small-strain modulus. The collapse of the soil structure at higher shear displacements is resulting in volume contractions and softening behaviour after reaching the peak shear strength. The study shows a relatively good agreement between CPTu, PMT and SPT parameters and adequate correlations have been established between the cone resistance (CPTu), limit pressure (PMT) and number of blows (SPT). The in situ state and parameters of strength, stiffness and compressibility of the clay tested are estimated based on the in situ test parameters as well as comparative laboratory test results obtained on undisturbed soil samples. Existing empirical correlations developed for the interpretation of CPTu test results are mainly from young and uncemented soils without microstructure and therefore, the results shown here are important for better understanding of the structured soil behaviour characteristics (stiffness, strength, and compressibility).

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A site located on the island of Brač is known in history for world-famous architectural stone and stone mining, dating all the way back to ancient Greek and Roman times. The most famous building constructed from the stone from Brač is the Diocletian Cesar Palace in the town Split. Prospective new locations for quarries are still required because the demand for the stone from the island is still high. This paper presents a review of undertaken geophysical investigations, as well as engineering geologic site prospection, with the purpose of determining if the rock mass quality is suitable for the mining of massive blocks needed for an architectural purpose—dimension stones. Several surface noninvasive geophysical methods were applied on the site, comprising of two seismic methods, multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) and shallow refraction seismic (SRS) electrical methods of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), as well as electromagnetic exploration with ground penetrating radar (GPR). Results of geophysical investigations were compared to the engineering geologic prospection results, as well to the visible rock mass structure and observed discontinuities on the neighboring existing open mine quarry. Rock mass was classified into three categories according to its suitability for dimension stone exploitation. Each category is defined by compressional and shear seismic velocities as well as electrical resistivity. It has been found that even small changes in moisture content within the large monolithic rock mass can influence measured values of electrical resistivity. In the investigated area, dimension stone quarrying is advisable if the rock mass has values of resistivity higher than 3000 Ωm, as well as compressional seismic velocities higher than 3000 m/s and shear wave velocities higher than 1500 m/s. Georadar was found to be a good tool for the visual determination of fissured systems, and was used to confirm findings from other geophysical methods.

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