Experimental and Analytical Investigation of a RC Wall with a Gabion Cushion Subjected to Boulder Impact

Abstract

An experimental investigation involving the use of a full-scale pendulum device to deliver solid object impact on a reinforced concrete (RC) barrier specimen that was fitted with a layer of gabion cushion is reported in this paper. The deflection behaviour of the stem wall of the RC barrier including the tensile strains developed in the longitudinal reinforcement was of interests. Results recorded from the tests are compared with results from control experiments which were without the protection of any cushion materials. The introduction of a layer of cushion is shown to be able to have the contact force reduced by more than 95% and deflection demand reduced by about 70%. An analytical proce..