Bearing capacity and stability analysis of geocell-reinforced slopes subjected to the footing loading

In many cases, the foundations of structures are constructed near the edge of slopes, which may cause a lack of bearing capacity. In recent years, several studies have been carried out on the application of geocell reinforcement to enhance the global stability of slopes. However, there are limited studies on the effect of geocell reinforcement on a slope's stability when the reinforced slope is subjected to footing loadings. In this study, the positive impact of geocell reinforcement on the bearing capacity of strip footings on slopes is discussed. Also, limit equilibrium analysis has been conducted to better investigate the effect of the reinforcement on the potential slip surfaces and factors of safety. The results of the study suggest that geocell reinforcement not only enhances the bearing capacity of the footing located on the slope, but it will also improve the whole stability of the system by forcing the failure planes deeper into the underlying soil.