Which one of the following is an example of reinforced earth wall?
- AFacing panel with wire mesh reinforcementCorrect
- BHollow panel with tieback anchor
- CUnanchored gabion wall
- DPFRC wall
Solution
Concept
Types of reinforced soil walls
Step-by-step solution
1. A reinforced earth wall consists of a facing panel connected to metal strips, grids or wire mesh embedded in the backfill. 2. Tieback walls rely on anchors in the soil behind, and gabion walls are gravity walls.
Explanation
The facing panel with wire-mesh reinforcement is the classic mechanically stabilised earth wall.
Why the other options are wrong
Tieback anchors, unanchored gabions and PFRC (polymer fibre-reinforced concrete) walls are different types of retaining structures.
Shortcut
Reinforced earth = facing + soil reinforcement in the fill.
Common mistake
Choosing the gabion wall.
Correct answer: A) Facing panel with wire mesh reinforcement