[5] Construction and design considerations

After performing the analyses, the specific type of the preselected reinforcement material (ParaGridÔ) was determined on the basis of the desired tensional strength. Product details are mentioned in this case because when it comes to manufactured geo-materials, it is a good exercise for the students to have a look at the product specifications and make the connections between the information provided by the manufacturer and the values of the parameters needed for the calculations. It is reiterated that the wire mesh of the gabions extended for 3m beyond the upper horizontal side of each gabion, offering a total reinforcement length of 4m. The tensional strength of the wire mesh used, according to the manufacturer, is in the range of 40 to 50 kN/m.

Other relevant design or construction considerations with bearing on analysis include the placement of drainage pipes at the bottom of the backfill (see Figure 1) to ensure that there will be no water built-up behind the retaining wall. In addition, smaller-size gabions of 0.50m were selected close to the wall toe to allow for closer placement of the reinforcement over a height of 3.5m. Above this height, 1-m gabions were used, as shown on Figure 1.