Numerical Modeling of Cantilever and Geogrid-Reinforced Retaining Walls with Planar Geodrain in Granular Soils of Sachaca-Arequipa Using PLAXIS 2D

Amado J.D.; Choque H.V.; Saul Perez-Montaño H. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2026.1.1.892

Resumen

Mass movements represent a critical geotechnical challenge in seismic zones such as Sachaca, Arequipa, where the vulnerability of sandy-clayey soils demands efficient retaining solutions. This study compares the performance of reinforced-concrete cantilever retaining walls and mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls reinforced with biaxial geogrid and planar geodrain, using numerical modeling in PLAXIS 2D. Soil properties were characterized (moisture content 31.62%, friction angle 30.1°), and stresses, deformations, and pore pressure were evaluated. The results show that cantilever walls exhibit lower displacements and deformations, while MSE walls provide superior pore-pressure relief (≈1.12 times). These findings offer technical criteria to optimize the design of retaining structures in granular soils of seismic regions in southern Peru.

Instituciones: Universidad Tecnológica del Perú