cohesion value 2

[zennis]

In a geotech report it is stated that "A cohesion value of 850 psf may be used in front of the key-way along the horizontal distance to the toe in order to resist sliding."

My questions/comments:
This is a retaining wall with a shear key at the base of the footing. Does this statement mean if the key is 1' from the toe and 1' deep from the base of the footing I get the full 850 psf of resistance from soil in front of the key.

Obviously there are other things to consider here, frost depth, base of footing depth, etc. but I am looking for what in general this means. I am currently waiting for the geotech to return my phone call. Any help is appreciated.

 

[BigH]

Ask the geotech what he meant!

 

[cap4000]

I would think so. What I always done, is ignore a certain overburden say the top 2 feet. Then I would use the key and the footing thickness as part of the Passive(Kh)Force. In NJ the frost line is 3 feet. Check that groundwater is not an issue. Hope this helps.Good Luck.