Localized shear strength mobilization at geosynthetic interfaces caused by spreading soil upslope

Localized interface shear strength failures have occurred during placement and spreading of cover soils on top geosynthetic layers slopes using construction equipment, typically bulldozers (‘dozers’). The mechanisms these types are rarely considered evaluated in design reports calculations. present paper intends to improve upon the analyses presented previous literature references by providing straightforward equations static equilibrium that user can easily input into a spreadsheet model various dozer sizes, geometries, strengths. analyzes forces below soil pile being pushed, as well tracks, which has not been previously available literature. provided should be useful for engineers avoid slippage where dozers materials over geosynthetics, or forensic experts who evaluate why may occurred.