Simulation study of foundations reinforced with horizontal-vertical inclusions using particle flow code

A two-dimensional discrete element code, particle flow code (PFC^2D), is employed to investigate foundations reinforced with horizontal-vertical (H-V) inclusions. The initial states and loading processes of both unreinforced and H-V reinforced foundations are simulated by PFC^2D method. The interface between particles and reinforcements, and the reinforcement mechanism of the H-V reinforced foundations are studied through stress distribution graphs, displacement vector graphs and contact force graphs. The simulation results demonstrate that the vertical elements of the H-V reinforcement keep the particles from being displaced under the applied load. The H-V reinforcement can distribute the load uniformly over a wider area, thereby improving the bearing capacity of soil foundation.