Technical Note: Regression Analysis of Soil Nailing Parameters Using Finite Element and Limit Equilibrium Methods

With rising urbanization and growing transportation needs, stabilization of soil slopes has become extremely vital to ensure adequate, satisfactory performance and safety. Soil nailing is amongst the most cost-effective methods used for slope stabilization by inserting relatively slender reinforcing elements, mostly reinforcement bars, into the soil slopes at predetermined intervals, followed by finishing up with shotcrete and mesh installation. This study is based on the determination of the most economical nail length pattern for different soil conditions and establishes a trend using a multiple regression technique with nail length as a factor. In this study, conventional design analysis using relevant charts and tables published by the US Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has been used to design a 6m high soil nail wall which has been further analysed using Finite Element method and Limit Equilibrium method for a range of soil parameters. Based upon the obtained results, a relationship between soil deformation, soil parameters and nail length using multiple regression technique has been derived. The results obtained from the derived relationship were then compared to the relevant literatures and case studies and were found to be in good agreement.