The course explains the analytical model for calculating the strength of a GRS composite, as well as conditions and properties of the backfill used in FE analyses. The course also describes global stress-strain curves for GSGC of different dimensions. The material is based on Composite Behavior of Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil Mass, FHWA Publication No. FHWA-HRT-10-077, Chapter 4.

After completing the course, the learner will have a better understanding of specifications for the plane-strain GSGC test, as well as an understanding of the following topics:

• Global volume change curves for GSGC of different dimensions
• Global stress-strain curves of unreinforced soil 
• Specimen dimensions for the GSGC tests
• Load deformation curves of the geosynthetics
• Details of test conditions and instrumentation