ANNA UNIVERSITY RAMANATHAPURAM-ROYAL CIVIL

DESIGN AND DETAILING OF RETAINING WALLS

Definition: Retaining walls are usually built to hold back soil mass. However, retaining
walls can also be constructed for aesthetic landscaping purposes. Retaining walls are
structures that are constructed to retail soil or any such materials which are unable to stand
vertically by themselves. They are also provided to maintain the grounds at two different
levels.

(a) (b)

Figure. Cross section of cantilever retaining wall (a) and the finished retaining wall (b)

Figure. Types of retaining walls

 Figure. Photo of concrete retaining wall

Figure. Types of gravity retaining walls

Classification of retaining walls:

Following are the different types of retaining walls, which is based on the shape and the
mode of resisting the pressure.

1. Gravity wall-Masonry or Plain concrete

2. Cantilever retaining wall-RCC
(Inverted T and L)
3. Counterfort retaining wall-RCC
4. Buttress wall-RCC
 Backfill Backfill

Tile
drain

Gravity RW T-Shaped RW L-Shaped RW

Back
fill
Counterfort Buttress
Weep
holes

Counterfort RW Buttress RW
Figure. Types of retaining walls

Earth Pressure (P)

Earth pressure is the pressure exerted by the retaining material on the retaining wall. This
pressure tends to deflect the wall outward. There are two types of earth pressure and they are;

Active earth pressure or earth pressure (Pa) and Passive earth pressure (Pp). Active earth
pressure tends to deflect the wall away from the backfill. Earth pressure depends on type of
backfill, the height of wall and the soil conditions

Soil conditions: The different soil conditions are

Dry leveled back fill
Moist leveled backfill
Submerged leveled backfill
Leveled backfill with uniform surcharge
Backfill with sloping surface
Analysis for dry back fills

Pa

M
Df

kah

Maximum pressure at any height, p=kah

Total pressure at any height from top, P=1/2[kah]h = [kah2]/2
Bending moment at any height = M=Pxh/3= [kah3]/6

Total pressure at bottom, Pa= [kaH2 ]/2

Total Bending moment at bottom, M = [kaH3]/6
Where, ka= Coefficient of active earth pressure= (1-sin)/(1+sin)=tan2
= 1/kp, coefficient of passive earth pressure
= Angle of internal friction or angle of repose
=Unit weigh or density of backfill

If = 30, ka=1/3 and kp=3. Thus ka is 9 times kp

Backfill with sloping surface

pa= ka H at the bottom and is parallel to inclined surface of backfill

cos cos2 cos 2
ka= cos
2 2
cos cos cos
Where =Angle of surcharge
Total pressure at bottom=Pa= ka H2/2

Stability requirements of RW:

Following conditions must be satisfied for stability of wall.

1. It should not overturn
2. It should not slide
3. It should not subside i.e Max. pressure at the toe should not exceed the safe bearing
capacity of the soil under working condition

Check against overturning

Factor of safety against overturning = MR / MO 1.55 (=1.4/0.9)

Where, MR =Stabilising moment or restoring moment

MO =overturning moment
As per IS:456-2000,

MR>1.2 MO, ch DL + 1.4 MO, ch IL

0.9 MR 1.4 MO, ch IL

Check against Sliding

FOS = Resisting force to sliding/Horizontal force causing sliding

= W/Pa 1.55 (=1.4/0.9)

As per IS:456:2000
1.4 = ( 0.9W)/Pa

Design of Shear key:

If the wall is not safe against sliding, then a shear key is to be provided. It is provided either
below the stem or at the end of heel. It should not be provided at the end of toe. If shear key
is provided, then it should be designed taking the effect of passive pressure.
 H

H+a

Pa

C
A R
pp
a

B
W ka(H+a)
=45 + /2

In case the wall is unsafe against sliding

pp= p tan2 (45 +/2) = p kp
where pp= Unit passive pressure on soil above shearing plane AB
If
W= Total vertical force acting at the key base
= shearing angle of passive resistance
R= Total passive force = pp x a
PA=Active horizontal pressure at key base for H+a
W=Total frictional force under flat base

For equilibrium, R + W =FOS x PA

FOS= (R + W)/ PA 1.55

Pressure below the wall

Consider the retaining wall as shown. All forces acting on the wall are shown. The moment
of all forces at the end of toe is considered and the requirements of stability are to be
established. For stability earth pressure at the end of the heel for the entire height of wall
should be considered. The maximum and minimum pressure below the wall can be
determined from the principles of static.
 W4 H
x1 W1
h
W
W2
x2 Pa

R
H/3
W3
T
e b/6
x b/2
b

Pressure below the Retaining Wall

Maximum pressure at the toe

Let the resultant R due to W and Pa lie at a distance x from the toe.
X = M/W, M = sum of all moments about toe.
Eccentricity of the load = e = (b/2-x)
Minimum pressure at heel
W 6e
Pmin 1
b b
This should not be less than zero to avoid tension at the base. From this e=b/6, resultant
should cut the base within the middle third. Otherwise the wall tends to separate from the
base due to tension.

Maximum pressure at toe

W 6e
Pmax 1
b b
This should not be greater than SBC of soil to avoid the subsidence of wall.

Depth of foundation
2
SBC 1 sin SBC 2
Rankines formula: Df = = ka
1 sin
Preliminary Proportioning (T shaped wall)

Following guidelines are to be followed for initial proportioning of wall with out surcharge.
For surcharge and other cases, good text books should be followed.

Stem: Top width 200 mm to 400 mm

Base slab width b= 0.4H to 0.6H, and 0.6H to 0.75H for surcharged wall
Base slab thickness= H/10 to H/14
Toe projection= (1/3-1/4) Base width

200

tp= (1/3-1/4)b
H/10 H/14

b= 0.4H to 0.6H
Behaviour or structural action and design
All the three elements namely stem, toe and heel acts as cantilever slabs and hence the design
and detailing principles are same as that of conventional cantilever slabs.

Stem design: Mu=partial safety factor x (ka H3/6)

Determine the depth d from Mu = Mu, lim=Qbd2
Determine the steel based on balanced or under reinforced design. Provide enough
development length at the junction for all bars.

Curtailment of steel

Maximum steel is needed at the base where the BM is maximum. As the BM decreases
towards the top, steel can be suitably curtailed at one or two levels. Usually steel is curtailed
at one level where the steel quantity is about 50% or 67% of the base steel.

Effective depth is Proportional to h

Bending moment is proportional to h3
Ast is l to BM/Eff. depth and is l to h2
A h2
i.e. st1 12
Ast 2 h2
 Distance
From
h1 top Every alternate bar
curtailed
Ast/2 h2
h1c

Ldt
Ast
h2
Ast/2 Ast
Provided
Ast

Distribution steel: 0.12% Gross area for HYSD bars, 0.15% for Mild steel bars

Temperature steel: Provide this steel at the outer face which is same as the distribution steel.

Also provide suitable development lengths for all steel meeting at the junction. Provide
suitable construction keys, drainage facilities, tile drains and weep holes as shown in the
drawing. Sketch the drawings and detail as per the requirements.

Retaining wall Design

Design example-1

Design a cantilever retaining wall (T type) to retain earth for a height of 4m. the backfill is
horizontal. The density of soil is 18kN/m3. Safe bearing capacity of soil is 200 kN/m2. Take
the co-efficient of friction between concrete and soil as 0.6. The angle of repose is 30
degrees. Use M20 concrete and Fe415 steel.

Solution

Data: h' = 4m, SBC= 200 kN/m2, = 18 kN/m3, =0.6, =30

To fix the height of retaining wall, H

H= h' +Df

Depth of foundation
2
SBC 1 sin SBC 2
Rankines formula: Df = = ka
1 sin

1.23m say 1.2m , therefore H= 5.2m

 Proportioning of wall
Thickness of base slab= (1/10 to 1/14) H, 0.52m to 0.43m, say 450 mm
Width of base slab=b = (0.5 to 0.6) H, 2.6m to 3.12m say 3m
Toe projection= pj= (1/3 to )H, 1m to 0.75m say 0.75m
Provide 450 mm thickness for the stem at the base and 200 mm at the top

Design of stem

To find Maximum bending moment at the junction

Ph= x 1/3 x 18 x 4.75 2=67.68 kN

M= Ph h/3 = 0.333 x 18 x 4.753/6 = 107.1 kN-m
Mu= 1.5 x M = 160.6 kN-m

Taking 1m length of wall,

Mu/bd2= 1.004 < 2.76, URS (Here d=450- effective cover=450-50=400 mm)

To find steel
Pt=0.295% <0.96%
Ast= 0.295x1000x400/100 = 1180 mm2
#12 @ 90 < 300 mm and 3d ok
Ast provided= 1266mm2

Development length
Ld=47 bar =47 x 12 = 564 mm

Curtailment of bars
Curtail 50% steel from top
(h1/h)2 =

(h1/4.75)2 = , h1 = 3.36m
Actual point of cutoff= 3.36-Ld =3.36-47 bar = 3.36-0.564 = 2.74m from top.

Spacing of bars = 180 mm c/c < 300 mm and 3d ok

Distribution steel
= 0.12% GA = 0.12x450 x 1000/100 = 540 mm2
#10 @ 140 < 450 mm and 5d ok

Secondary steel for stem at front (Temperature steel)

0.12% GA = 0.12x450 x 1000/100 = 540 mm2
#10 @ 140 < 450 mm and 5d ok

Check for shear

Max. SF at Junction = Ph=67.68 kN

Ultimate SF= Vu=1.5 x 67.68 = 101.52 kN
Nominal shear stress =v=Vu/bd = 101.52 x 1000 / 1000x400 = 0.25 MPa
To find c : 100Ast/bd = 0.32%, From IS:456-2000, c= 0.38 MPa
 v< c Hence safe in shear.

Stability analysis

W4 H
x1 W1
h
W
W2
x2 Pa

H/3
W3
T
e b/6
x b/2
b

0.75m 0.45m 1.8m

30.16 kN/m2
120.6 kN/m2
24.1
97.99
22.6

Pressure below the Retaining Wall

Bending moment
Distance from A,
Load Magnitude, kN about A
m
kN-m
Stem W1 0.2x4.75x1x25 = 23.75 1.1 26.13
0.75 +
Stem W2 x0.25x4.75x1x25 = 14.84 13.60
2/3x0.25=0.316
Base slab W3 3.0x0.45x1x25 = 33.75 1.5 50.63
Back fill, W4 1.8x4.75x1x18 = 153.9 2.1 323.20
total W= 226.24 MR=413.55
Hori. earth PH =0.333x18x5.22/2
H/3 =5.2/3 MO=140.05
pressure =PH =81.04 kN

Stability checks:

Check for overturning:

FOS = MR/ MO= 2.94 >1.55 safe
 Check for Sliding:
FOS = W/ PH= 2.94 >1.55 safe

Check for subsidence:

Let the resultant cut the base at x from toe T,
x= M/ W= 1.20 m > b/3
e= b/2 x = 3/2 1.2 = 0.3m < b/6

Pressure below the base slab

W 6e
Max. pressure= Pmax 1
b b
120.66 kN/m2 < SBC, safe
W 6e
Min. pressure = Pmin 1
b b
2
30.16 kN/m > zero, No tension or separation, safe

Design of Heel

To fine the maximum bending moment

Distance from BM,

Load Magnitude, kN
C, m MC, kN-m
Backfill 153.9 0.9 138.51
Heel slab 0.45x1.8x25 = 27.25 0.9 18.23
Pressure distribution,
30.16 x 1.8 =54.29 0.9 -48.86
rectangle
Pressure distribution,
x 24.1 x1.8=21.69 1/3x1.8 -13.01
triangle
Total BM at
Total Load at junction 105.17 MC=94.86
junction

Mu= 1.5 x 94.86 =142.3 kNm

Mu/bd2= 0.89 < 2.76, URS
Pt=0.264% < 0.96%
Ast= 0.264x1000x400/100 = 1056 mm2
#16@ 190 < 300 mm and 3d ok
Ast provided= 1058mm2

Development length
Ld=47 bar =47 x 16 = 752mm

Distribution steel
Same, #10 @ 140 < 450 mm and 5d ok

Check for shear at junction (Tension)

Net downward force causing shear = 142.3kN. Critical section for shear is at the face as it is
subjected to tension.
Maximum shear =V=105.17 kN, VU, max= 157.76 kN, v =0.39 MPa
 pt=100x1058/(1000x400)=0.27%
uc =0.37 MPa
Allowable shear force= 0.37x 1000 x 400 =148kN, slightly less than VU, max. May be
ok

Design of toe
To find the maximum bending moment
Distance from BM,
Load Magnitude, kN
C, m MC, kN-m
Toe slab 0.75x0.45x25=8.44 0.75/2 -3.164
Pressure distribution,
97.99x0.75=73.49 0.75/2 27.60
rectangle
x22.6
Pressure distribution, triangle 2/3x1=0.75 4.24
x1x0.75=8.48
Total BM at
Total Load at junction 73.53 M=28.67kNm
junction

Mu= 1.5 x 28.67 =43 kNm

Mu/bd2= 0.27< 2.76, URS
Pt=0.085% Very small, provide 0.12%GA
Ast= 540 mm2
#10 @ 140 < 300 mm and 3d ok

Development length:
Ld=47 bar =47 x 10 = 470 mm

Check for shear:

Since the soil pressure introduces compression in the wall, the critical section is taken at a
distance d from junction.
Net shear force at the section= (120.6+110.04)/2 x 0.35 -0.45x0.35x25=75.45kN
V=75.46 kN, VU,max=75.45x1.5=113.18 kN
v=113.17x1000/(1000x400)=0.28 MPa
pt=0.25%
uc =0.37 MPa
V,allowable = 0.37x 1000 x 400 =148 kN > VU,max, ok

Construction joint
A key 200 mm wide x 50 mm deep with nominal steel
#10 @ 250, 600 mm length in two rows

Drainage:
100 mm dia. pipes as weep holes at 3m c/c at bottom
Also provide 200 mm gravel blanket at the back of the stem for back drain.

Sketch

Following section will be asked in the examination.

1. Cross section of wall

2. Longitudinal section of wall for about 2m
3. Sectional plan of the base slab
4. Longitudinal section of stem near the base slab

#12 @ 180

#10 @ 140

#12 @ 90
#16 @ 190

#10 @ 140
Cross section of wall Longitudinal section of wall

Note
Adopt a suitable scale such as 1:20
Show all the details and do neat
drawing
Show the development length for all
bars at the junction
Name the different parts such as
stem, toe, heel, backfill, weep holes,
blanket, etc.,
Show the dimensions of all parts
Detail the steel in all the drawings
Lines with double headed arrows
represents the development lengths in
the cross section

Sectional plan of base slab

 DESIGN AND DETAILING OF COUNTERFORT RETAINING WALL

When the height of the retaining wall exceeds about 6 m, the thickness of the stem and heel slab
works out to be sufficiently large and the design becomes uneconomical. In such a case
counterforts having trapezoidal section fixed at the base slab are provided at intervals of 1.5 m to
3 m. The counterforts support the heel slab and the vertical stem. The design principles for
different components of the wall are discussed as under.

Design of Stem
The stem acts as a continuous slab spanning longitudinally over the counterforts. The
horizontal active soil pressure acts as the load on the slab. Since the earth pressure varies
linearly over the height of the stem, the slab deflects away from the earth face between the
counterforts and hence the main steel is provided at the outer face of the stem and at the inner
face near the supporting counterforts. The bending moment in the stem is maximum at the
base and reduces towards top. But the thickness of the wall is kept constant and only the area
of steel is reduced.

If I is the clear distance between the counterforts and p is the intensity of soil pressure, the
slab is designed for bending moment as under:

Maximum +ve B.M= pl2/16 (occurring mid-way between counterforts) and

Maximum -ve B.M= pl2/12 (occurring at inner face of counterforts)

The main reinforcement is provided horizontally along the length of the wall. The ties are
provided horizontally for the full value of reaction to prevent slab separating from
counterforts.

Design of Toe Slab

The base width is approximately taken equal to 0.6 H to 0.7 H, where H is the overall height
of the wall. The projection of toe slab is approximately taken between 1/3 to 1/4 of base
width. The toe slab is subjected to an upward soil reaction and is designed as a cantilever
slab fixed at the front face of the stem. Due to upward soil pressure, the tension develops on
the earth face and the reinforcement is provided on earth face along the length of the toe slab.
In case the toe slab projection is large i.e. > b/3, front counterforts are provided above the
toe slab (normally up to the ground level) and the slab is designed as a continuous horizontal
slab spanning between the front counterforts.

Design of Heel Slab

The heel slab is designed as a continuous slab spanning over the counterforts, as in the case
of stem. The heel slab is subjected to downward forces due to weight of soil plus self weight
of slab and an upward force due to soil reaction. The net force acts downward producing
tension towards the earth face between the counterforts and negative moment develops at the
support provided by counterforts.

If p is the net downward force and I is the clear span between the counterforts the B.M. is
given by:
Maximum +ve B.M= pl2/16 (mid-way between counterforts towards earth face)
Maximum -ve B.M. = pl2/12 (occurring at counterforts)

Design of Counterforts
Since the active earth pressure on stem acts outward and stem is considered to be fixed at
counterforts, the counterforts are subjected to outward reaction from the stem. This produces
tension along the outer sloping face of the counterforts. The inner face supporting the stem is
in compression. Thus, the stem lies in the compression zone with respect to the bending of
the counterforts and hence the counterforts are designed as a T-beam of varying depth. The
main steel provided along the sloping face shall be anchored properly at both ends. The depth
of the counterfort is measured perpendicular to the sloping side.

In order that the counterfort and stem should act as one unit, it is joined firmly to the stem by
providing ties in the horizontal plane. The base is tied with vertical ties to prevent its
tendency to separate out under the action of net downward force. The provision of ties
ensures transfer of forces to the counterforts. The net forces acting on the different
components of the counterforts, position of main steel and horizontal and vertical ties are
schematically shown.

PROBLEM: A R.C.C. retaining wall with counterforts is required to support earth to a

height of 7 m above the ground level. The top surface of the backfill is horizontal. The trial
pit taken at the site indicates that soil of bearing capacity 220 kN/m2 is available at a depth of
1.25 m below the ground level. The weight of earth is 18 kN/m3 and angle of repose is 30.
The coefficient of friction between concrete and soil is 0.58. Use concrete M20 and steel
grade Fe 415. Design the retaining wall.

Given: fck = 20 N/mm2, fy = 415N/mm2, H = 7 m above G.L, Depth of footing below G.L. =
1.25 m, = 18 kN/m3, = 0.58, fb = 220 kN/m2

Required : Design the counterfort retaining wall.

Design constants
Q=2.76 N/mm2
Ld = (0.87 fy / 4 bd) = 0.87x415/4x(1.2x1.6) = 47bar
For = 30
Coefficient of active pressure = ka = (1 - sin )/(l + sin ) = 1/3
Coefficient of passive pressure = kp = (1 + sin )/(l - sin) = 3

a. Proportioning of Wall Components

The height of the wall above the base = H = 7 + 1.25 = 8.25 m.

Base width = 0.6 H to 0.7 H i.e. between 4.95 m to 5.78 m.
Assume base width b = 5.5 m
Toe projection = b/4 = 5.5/4 = say 1 .2 m
Assume thickness of vertical wall = 250 mm
Thickness of base slab = 450 mm
clear spacing between counterforts is given by :
L = 3.5 (H/)0.25 = 3.5 (8.25/18)0.25 = 2.88 m
c/c spacing = 2.88 + 0.25 = 3.13 m say 3 m
Provide counterforts at 3 m c/c.
Assume width of counterfort = 400 mm
clear spacing provided = L = 3 - 0.4 = 2.6 m
The preliminary dimensions of the components of the wall are shown in Figure.
250 mm

CF: 3m c/c,
400 mm

h=7.8 m
h1=7 m H=8.25 m

1.25m 1.2 m 4.05m

b=5.5 m

b. Check Stability of Wall

The stability of the wall will be checked at working load because safe bearing capacity of soil
is in the working load condition.

Dist. of
Sr. Description of Moment about
Loads in kN e.g. from
No. loads T in kN-m
T in m
Weight of stem 25x0.25x1x7.8 1.2 + 0.25/2
1 64.59
W1 = 48.75 =1.325

Weight of base 25x5.5x1x0.45

2 5.5/2 =2.75 170.17
slab W2 = 61.88

Weight of earth 18x4.05x1x7.8 1.45 +4.05/2

3 1975.95
over heel slab W3 = 568.62 = 3.475
Total W = 679.25 W =2210.71

Horizontal earth pressure on full height of wall

= Ph = h2ka /2 =18 x 8.25 2/(3 x 2) = 204.19 kN
Overturning moment = M0 = Ph x H/3 = 204.19 x 8.25/3
= 561.52 kN.m.
Factor of safety against overturning
= M / M0 = 2210.71/561.52 = 3.937 > 1.55 ... safe.

Check for sliding

Total horizontal force tending to slide the wall = Ph = 204.19 kN
Resisting force = .W = 0.58 x 679.25 = 393.97 kN
Factor of safety against sliding = .W / Ph = 393.97/204.19
= 1.93 > 1.55 ... safe.
250 mm

H
8250
W
R

PA

1250 1200 mm C 4050 mm

A B D
450

X e b/2

80.39
166.61
153.9 147.8 143.9 kN/m2
kN/m2

5500 mm

Check for pressure distribution at base

Net moment = M = 2210.71 -561.52 = 1649.19 kN.m.
Let x be the distance from the toe where the resultant R acts,
x = M / W = 1649.19/679.25 = 2.43 m
Eccentricity = e = b/2 - x = 5.5/2 - 2.43 = 0.32 < b/6 (= 0.91 m)
Whole base is under compression.
Maximum pressure at toe
= pA = W / b ( 1+6e/b) = 679.25/5.5 ( 1+ 6*0.32/5.5)
= 166.61 kN/m2 < f b (= 220 kN/m2)
Minimum pressure at heel
= pD = W / b (1-6e/b) = 679.25/5.5 ( 1- 6*0.32/5.5)
= 80.39 kN/m2 compression.
The distribution of stresses under the base is shown in Fig

Intensity of pressure at junction of stem with toe i.e. under B

= pB = 80.39 + (166.61 - 80.39) x 4.3/5.5 = 147.8kN/m2
Intensity of pressure at junction of stem with heel i.e. under C
=Pc= 80.39 + (166.61 - 80.39) x 4.05/5.5 = 143.9 kN/m2

(b) Design of Toe slab

Since the projection of the toe is small, it is designed as a cantilever fixed at the stem.
Intensity of pressure at B = 147.8 kN/m2
Neglecting the weight of soil above the toe slab, the forces acting on
the toe slab are :
(i) downward force due to weight of toe slab TB
(ii) upward soil pressure on length AB.
Ultimate moment at B,
MB = L.F (moment due to soil pressure - moment due to wt. of slab TB
= 1.5 [147.8 x 1.2 2/2 + (166.61 - 147.8) x 1.2 (2/3 x 1.2)
-(25x 1.2 x 0.45 x 1.2/2) =174.57 kN.m.
d = (174.57 x 10 6) / ( 2.76 x1000) = 251.49mm < d (=390mm ) . .. o.k.
Mu/bd2=1.15, p t=0.343, Ast= 1336mm2
Using # 16 mm bars, spacing = 1000 x 201/1335 = 150 mm
However, the spacing is limited to 110 mm c/c from shear considerations.
Provide #16 mm @ 110 mm c/c, Area provided =1827 mm2, pt=0.47%

The bars shall be extended beyond the front face of the wall for a distance equal to
development length of 750 mm (= 47 x 16) Distribution steel = 0.12 x 1000 x 450/100 = 540
mm2
Provide #12 mm at 200 mm c/c. Area provided = 565 mm2

Check for Shear

Since the soil pressure induces compression in the wall the critical section for shear is taken
at a distance d from the face of the stem. Intensity of pressure at distance d (= 390 mm) from
the face of the toe.
pE = 80.39 + (166.61 - 80.39) (4.3 + 0.39)/5.5 = 153.9 kN/m2

Net vertical shear = Shear due to pressure varying from 166.61 kN/m2 to 153.9 kN/m2 - Shear
due to downward force of slab in length of 0.81 m (= 1.2 - 0.39) = (166.61 + 153.9) x 0.81/2 -
(25 x 0.45 x 0.81) =120.7 kN.
Net ultimate shear = Vu.max = 1.5 x 120.7 =181.05 kN.
v= 181.05x106/1000x390=0.46 MPa
c =0.47MPa for pt=0.47%, ... safe.
(c) Design of Heel Slab
The heel slab is designed as a continuous slab supported on counterforts. The downward force
will be maximum at the edge of the slab where intensity of soil pressure is minimum.
Consider 1 m wide strip near the outer edge D
The forces acting near the edge are
(a) Downward wt. of soil of height 7 . 8 m = 1 8 x7 . 8 x l = 140.4 kN/m
(b) Downward wt. of heel slab = 25 x 0.45 x 1 = 11.25 kN/m
(c) Upward soil pressure of intensity 80.39 kN/m2 = 80.39 x 1
= 80.39 kN/m
Net downward force at D = p = 140.4 + 11.25 - 80.39 = 71.26 kN/m
Also net downward force at C = 140.4 + 11.25 - 143.9 = 7.75 kN/m
Let the width of the counterfort = 400 mm
Clear spacing between counterforts = l = 2.6 m Maximum -ve ultimate moment in
heel slab at counterfort
= Mu= (L.F.) pl2 / 12 = 1.5 x 71.26 x 2.62/12 = 60.2 kN.m.
Mu/bd2=60.2x106/(1000x3902)= 0.4, pt=0.114, provide 0.12%GA
( Ast ) min = 0.12 x 1000 x 450/100 = 540 mm2
Provide # 12 mm @ 200 mm c/c, Area provided = 565 mm2
Pt, = 100 x 565/ (1000 x 390) = 0.14 %

Check for shear

Maximum shear = Vumax = 1.5 x 71.26 x 2.6/2 = 139 kN

v= 139x103/1000x390=0.36 MPa
c=0.28MPa. Unsafe and hence shear steel is needed.
Using #8 mm 2-legged stirrups,
Spacing=0.87x415x100/[(0.36-0.28)x1000]
= 452 mm < (0.75 x 390 = 290 mm or 300 mm )
Spacing = 290 mm
Provide #8 mm 2-legged stirrups at 290 mm c/c.

Since shear force varies linearly along the span of 2.6 m, the zone of design shear
reinforcement can be determined.
Let x1 be the distance from the counterfort where S.F. = 109.2 kN
then x1 = 1.30 x (139-109.2) / 139= 0.28m
Further in the transverse direction the S.F. decreases due to increase in the soil pressure.
Let the net down ward ultimate force/m at a distance y1 from C be equal to w1
Then ultimate S.F. at y1 = w1 x 2.60/2 = 1.30 w1
and this must be equal to Vuc i.e. 1.30 w1 = Vu c = 109.2 ... w1= 84 kN
 R

1250 1200 mm C 4050 mm

A B
450

X e b/2

4050 mm

C D
TOE 3000

2600 HEEL

x1
139
SFD

y1

7.75 71.28
kN/m kN/m

Net down force dia.

net downward working load = w'1 = 84/1.5 = 56 kN/m.

Now, variation of net downward force is linear having value of
71.26 kN/m. at D and 7.75 kN/m at C.
Let y2 be the distance from C where net downward force is 56 kN/m..
y2 ./ (56 - 7 .75 ) = ... 4.05 / (17.26 - 7 .75) ... y2 = 3.08 m from C.
y1 = 4.05 - 3.08 = say 1 m from end D
Provide # 8 mm 2-legged stirrups in heel slab at 290 mm c/c for a distance of 0.340 m on
either side of the counterfort and for a length of 1 m along the length of the counterfort in the
triangular portion. But from practical considerations provide the stirrups in the rectangular
portion of (0.34 m x 1 m).

Check for development length

For a continuous slab the check for development length satisfying the curtailments rules as
per SP34.

Area of steel for +ve moment

Maximum +ve ultimate moment = L.F. x p/2/16
= 3/4 Mu = 0.75 x 60.2
= 45.15 kN.m.
Mu/bd2=Very small
Too small and hence provide minimum steel. Astmin(= 540 mm2)
Provide # 12 mm bars at 200 mm c/c., Area provided = 565 mm2 > 540 mm2
Check the force at junction of heel slab with stem
The intensity of downward force decreases due to increases in upward soil reaction. Consider
m width of the slab at C
Net downward force .= 18 x 7.8 +25 x 0.45 - 143.9 = 7.75 kN/m.
Provide only minimum reinforcement. Provide # 12 mm bars at 200 mm c/c.

Distribution steel
Ast = 0.12 x 1000 x 450/100 = 540 mm2
Using # 12 mm bars, spacing = 1000 x 113/468 = 241 mm.
Provide # 12 mm at 200 mm c/c. , Area provided = 565 mm2

(d) Design of Stem (Vertical Slab)

The stem acts as a continuous slab spanning between the counterforts. It is subjected to
linearly varying earth pressure having maximum intensity at bottom.
Consider 1 m wide strip at bottom of stem at C.
The intensity of earth pressure

= PH = ka h =18 x 7.8/3=46.8 kN/m2

Area of steel on earth side near counterforts :
Maximum -ve ultimate moment,

Mu = 1.5 x ph 12/12 = 1.5 x 46.8 x 2.62/12 = 39.54 kN.m.

Required d = (39.54 x 106/(2.76 x 1000)) = 119 mm
However provide total depth = 250 mm
Assuming effective cover = 60 mm , d = 250 - 60 = 190 mm

Mu/bd2=1.1, pt=0.33, Ast=627mm2

Provide #12 mm @ 180 mm c/c,

However provide #12 mm @ 110 mm c/c from shar. Area provided = 1000 x 113/110 = 1027.27 mm2
P t= 100 x 1027.27/(100 x 190) = 0.54 % ,
As the earth pressure decreases towards the top, the spacing of the bars is increased with
decrease in height.

Distribution steel
Asl = 0.12 x 1000 x 250/100 = 300 mm2
Area of steel on each face = 300/2 = 150 mm2
Provide # 8 mm @ 300 mm on each face in the vertical direction.
Area provided = 1000 x 50/300 = 167 mm2
On the front face provided nominal steel 8 mm at 300 mm c/c to support the vertical bars.
(e) Design of Counterfort
Width of counterfort = 400 mm. The counterforts are provided at 3 m c/c. They are subjected
to earth pressure and downward reaction from the heel slab.
At any section at any depth h below the top E the total horizontal earth pressure acting on
the counterfort.
= 1/2 y h2 k x c/c distance between counterfort
= 18 x h2 x 3 x 1/6 = 9 h2
B.M. at any depth h = 9h2xh/3 = 3h3
B.M. at the base at C= 3 x 7.83 = 1423-7 kN.m.
Ultimate moment = Mu= 1.5 x 1423.7 = 2135.60 kN.m.

Net downward pressure on heel slab at D

= wt. due to earth pressure + wt. of heel slab - upward soil pressure
= 18 x 7.8 + 25 x 0.45 - 80.39 = 71.26 kN/m
Net downward pressure on heel slab at C
= 18 x 7.8 + 25 x 0.45 - 143.9 = 7.75 kN/m2 .
Total down ward force at D = 71.26 x c/c distance = 71.26 x 3
= 213.78 kN.m.
Total down ward force at C = 7.75 x c/c distance = 7.75 x 3
= 23.25 KN.m. .
As mentioned earlier the counterfort acts as a T-beam. As can be seen that the depth available
is much more than required from B.M. considerations.
Even assuming rectangular section,
d =(2135.6 x 106(2.76 x 400)) = 1390 mm
The available depth is obtained as under :

7.8 m

4.05m

The effective depth is taken at right angle to the reinforcement.

tan = 7.8/4.05 =1.93, = 62.5,
d = 4050 sin - eff. cover
= 3535 mm > > 1390 mm
Mu/bd2=2135.6x106/(400x35352) =0.427, pt=0.12%, Ast=1696mm2
Ast.min = 0.85 bd/fy = 0.85 x 400 x 3535/415 = 2896 mm2
Provided 4- # 22 mm + 4 - # 22 mm, Area provided = 3041 mm2
pt = 100 x 3041/(400 x 3535) = 0.21 %
The height h where half of the reinforcement can be curtailed is approximately equal to H=
7.8=2.79 m
Curtail 4 bars at 2.79-Ldt from top i.e, 2.79-1.03 =1.77m from top.

Design of Horizontal Ties

Due to horizontal earth pressure, the vertical stem has a tendency of separating out from the
counterforts, Hence it should be tied to it by horizontal ties.
The direct pull by the wall on counterfort for 1 m height at base
= hkax c/c distance =18 x 7.8 x 3 x 1/3 = 140.4 kN
Area of steel required to resist the direct pull
= 1.5 x 140.4 x 103/(0.87 x 415) = 583 mm2 per meter height.
Using # 8 mm 2-legged stirrups, Ast = 2 x x 82/4 = 100 mm2
spacing = 1000 x 100/583 = 170 mm c/c.
Provide # 8 mm 2-legged stirrups at 170 mm c/c.
Since the horizontal pressure decreases with h, the spacing of stirrups
can be increased from 170 mm c/c to 450 mm c/c towards the top.

Design of Vertical Ties

Due to net vertical down ward force acting on the base slab, it has a tendency to separate out
from the counterfort. This is prevented by providing vertical ties.
The maximum pull will be exerted at the end of heel slab where the net downward force =
71.26 kN/m.
Consider one meter strip
Total downward force at D
= 71.26 x c/c distance between counterforts = 71.28 x 3 = 213.78 kN.
Required Ast = 1.5 x 213.78 x 10 3/(0.87 x 415) = 888 mm2
Using # 8 mm 2-legged stirrups , Ast = 100 mm2
spacing = 1000 x 100/888 = 110 mm c/c.
Provide # 8 mm 2-legged stirrups at 110 mm c/c.
Total downward force at C= 3 x 7.75 = 23.25 kN
Required Ast = 1.5 x 23.25 x l0 3/(0.87 x 415) = 96.6mm2 very less.
Increase the spacing of vertical stirrups from 110 mm c/c to 450 mm c/c towards the end
C.
 250 mm

8-#22 1.77m
#12@400

#12@200 #8@110-450, VS 8250

#12@ 8 - # 22
110-300
#8@170-450, HS

1250 1200 mm
450

#16@120 #12@200 #12@200

Cross sectional details of wall through the counterfort

250 mm

7000

#12@200 8250 mm

#12@200

1250 1200 mm 4050 mm

450

#16@120 #12@200 #12@200

Cross section between counterforts
 Backfill Backfill

With straight bars With cranked bars

Section through stem at the junction of Base slab.