Creating robust and sustainable constructions in geotechnical engineering has become an upcoming topic in terms of reduction of carbon footprint as well as cost reduction on PPP projects. Combining technologies for slim precast concrete panels with stiff geosynthetic reinforced walls allows for the use of local and, if required, even treated soils. Design of precast panels in practice requires attention to the transport phase as well as on the construction steps during execution and serviceability limit state. Full-scale laboratory tests have been performed at high stress levels with 450 kPa according to bridge abutments as well as at dynamic loads. Additionally, a pilot wall three years in service has been loaded with 250 kPa and stress as well as deformation conditions have been measured. Monitoring allows for satisfactory back-analysis of the construction steps. The measured stress conditions fit with the expected low stress approach for the combined structure. The findings combine the current results of international research and updated design approaches (EBGEO) to a new stage of earthworks technology for steep walls. Attention has to be paid to the connection stress and details of concrete vs. polymeric reinforcement, intensive testing has been performed therefore. The implementation of the test results and the calibration of finite element models give the required input for a safe and economic design of the innovative structure. Beside the test results and the design concept taking complex soil-structure-interaction into consideration, a project using the innovative construction and design concept of this soil structure as bridge abutment and retaining wall is presented.
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