Discrete element simulations of load transfer mechanisms for a reinforced granular embankment submitted to loading cycles

A discrete element study of a reinforced granular embankment by rigid inclusions, submitted to cyclic loadings is presented. The discrete element method (based on molecular dynamics method) is used to understand the load transfer mechanisms into the granular layer (just above the inclusions) during cyclic loadings. The microscale study showed that the soil above the rigid inclusions retrieve the larger forces, illustrating on the role of the granular layer as a load transfer layer, while the settlement of both the granular layer and loading slab increase with loading. The efficiency of load transfer to piles and ability (capacity of the granular material to postpone the overloads to the piles) decreases with cycling, but keeping high values at the end of cycles. The transfer of forces in the granular layer is achieved by two mechanisms, interacting together (inverted pyramid above rigid inclusions and arching), confirming results found in the literature.