The use of precast concrete panels, with galvanised steel strip reinforcement to strengthen the soil behind, is a well-established technique, with over thirty thousand structures built worldwide over the past thirty years

Phi Group's rectangular concrete panel system maximises the benefits resulting from reinforced soil by providing:-

• A cost effective solution typically 50% of the cost of a reinforced concrete retaining wall.
• A robust structure that can accommodate high working and dead loads associated with bridge abutments and other large retaining walls.
• A mortar free facing and self-draining system.
• A finished wall that is tolerant of settlement without cracking.
• A construction method requiring no structural foundation or temporary propping, with all work carried out from behind the panel facing.
• An end product with no curing or shutter stripping involved.

Specification

The standard concrete panel measures 2.0m x 1.8m. The steel reinforcement strips, normally 50mm wide by 4mm thick, are hot dipped galvanised to give a design life of 120 years. Steel strips are ribbed if necessary to increase frictional resistance within the fill material.

The granular fill material used with the steel strips is specified as class 6I or 6J in the Department of Transport Specification for Highway Works series 600.

Applications

• Bridge abutments and wing walls.
• Heavily loaded verticle retaining walls on transportation and industrial projects.