Numerical Study of the Influence of Foundation Compressibility and Operational Loadings on the Seismic Behavior of Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil Bridge Abutments

A numerical study based on the finite element method was used to investigate the effect of seismic loading compared to the static response of a geosynthetic reinforced soil bridge abutment. The numerical model was validated using shaking table tests conducted on laboratory physical models. A parametric study including seismic acceleration, operational loadings, and soil foundation stiffness was performed using the validated numerical model. The findings of this investigation reveal a notable correlation between seismic accelerations and increased lateral deformation and settlements within the GRS bridge support structure, particularly under operational loadings. Notably, seismic accelerations had a critical impact on connection loads, exceeding peak loads induced by backfill reinforcements in certain situations. Additionally, seismic forces not only influenced load magnitudes but also altered their distribution along the structure’s elevation. Importantly, the compressibility of the foundation soil emerged as a significant determinant in shaping the seismic behavior of the structure.