Interaction of GRS Abutments with Bridge Superstructures Under Seismic Loading Phase I

This report summarizes the findings of a Phase I investigation of the seismic performance of geosynthetic-reinforced soil (GRS) bridge abutments. For this application, the bridge load is directly applied to the reinforced soil backfill through a shallow foundation. This concept represents significant cost savings through the avoidance of deep foundations (piles) and provides several other advantages. Results from this Phase I investigation suggest that GRS bridge abutments may be a viable option for single-span and multi-span bridges in California. Based on these numerical results, shake table testing of GRS bridge abutments is the next logical step to evaluate the seismic performance of this design concept.