A Case Study of Failure Analysis of an MSE Retaining Wall in Tennessee: Lessons Learned and Recommendations for Reconstruction

Abstract

Field observations and Retaining Wall Failure assessment revealed both vertical settlement and lateral movement of the asphalt pavement and concrete curbs within the reinforced backfill zone of the retaining wall. Lateral and vertical ground movement near the wall has impacted the surface drainage system in the driveway area. Surface water runoff has been directed toward the wall instead of flowing into designated catch basins. The failure of the retaining wall seems to have occurred due to a connection failure at the facing panels, where the anchorage system pulled out of or sheared off the panels. This failure may have been caused by backfill settlement and the added hydrostatic pressure imposed on the wall from the migration of surface water runoff into the backfill. Our examination also revealed anchor system failures both at the wall panel connection locations as well as within the concrete deadmen anchors, where rebars appeared to have pulled out from the concrete anchor block. Additionally, we observed the absence of any drainage system in the retaining wall such as weep holes, perforated drainage pipes, or other similar features. Lateral earth pressures acting on the wall system may increase, not only due to the added weight of the backfill material but also due to the likelihood of hydrostatic pressures imposed on the wall.Furthermore, backfill material used for wall constructed appears to be non-uniform and poor quality

Mitigation of A Sinkhole in Nashville, Tennessee: A Case Study with Compaction Grouting Approach

“…Their manifestation is often unpredictable and can be spurred by factors like heavy precipitation, fluctuations in groundwater levels, or human interventions such as mining and construction. Extensive research has been dedicated to devising methodologies for managing sinkhole occurrences, spanning from preemptive measures to post-collapse interventions [15] to [35]. This literature review delves into various case studies on sinkhole remediation, shedding light on diverse approaches, encountered challenges, and insightful takeaways.…”