STABILIZATION OF THE POSITION OF A REINFORCED CONCRETE RETAINING WALL ACCORDING TO THE RESULTS OF ITS TECHNICAL INSPECTION

Abstract

According to the agreement, in June 2025, experts conducted a technical inspection of the retaining wall structures of the construction of multi-apartment residential buildings in the city of Khmelnytskyi in order to determine the actual technical condition of the structure, its suitability for further operation, and to stabilize its position. A monolithic reinforced concrete corner retaining wall with a total length of 83.4 m was erected in 2021. The structural elements of the retaining wall are: vertical (wall) and horizontal (sole) slabs, rigidly connected to each other. The results of a visual inspection of the retaining wall structures revealed defects and damage that reduce its load-bearing capacity, suitability for normal operation, reliability, and durability. The calculation established that the bearing capacity of the retaining wall to absorb actual loads and forces after strengthening the wall (installing ribs) is ensured with a utilization factor of 0.93. The stability of the retaining wall against plane shear is not ensured, it is necessary to provide measures to stabilize its position. The technical condition of the reinforced concrete monolithic retaining wall at the time of the inspection is not suitable for normal operation (category 3). To ensure reliable and safe operation of the structure, it is necessary to carry out work to stabilize its position. The reason for the formation of through-going vertical cracks and deformations along the length of the retaining wall is the increase in loads (active lateral soil pressure) from the backfill side due to soil moistening by precipitation and the absence of external backfill soil (non-compliance with the minimum embedment depth), which cause the retaining wall to shift. It is recommended to install bored piles and monolithic reinforced concrete ribs (buttresses) on the outside of the retaining wall to its full height. In addition to the work on installing bored piles, it is recommended to carry out repair work and reinforcement measures.