An Engineering and Management Approach to Optimizing the Behavior of Strip Footings on Geocell-Reinforced Saturated Sand: Analyzing the Effect of Embedment Depth, Reinforcement Width, and Geocell Geometry

Abstract

Improving the performance of shallow foundations on problematic soils such as saturated sand requires integrating precise engineering design with informed management of influential parameters. This research examines geocell systems from an engineering-management perspective to provide solutions that simultaneously enhance bearing capacity and optimize economic and executional efficiency. In a systematic laboratory study, the effect of three key parameters with engineering significance (embedment depth, reinforcement width, and geocell geometry) on the behavior of a strip footing on saturated sand was investigated. These parameters were considered as design management variables to quantify their impact on the system's performance and economic indicators. Forty-nine tests were conducted, including an unreinforced reference case, under uniform loading. The results showed that optimal management of embedment depth at shallow depths (u/B = 0.25) combined with engineered selection of reinforcement width (L/B ≥ 3) can increase the Bearing Capacity Ratio (BCR) up to 4.2 times. From the perspective of material management and technical selection, geocells with greater height and smaller cell aperture (G3) were identified as the superior engineering option. This study demonstrates that through engineering design based on testing and intelligent management of effective parameters, reinforced systems can be achieved that are both technically efficient and economically and executionally optimal. The findings provide a framework for managerial decision-making in selecting configuration, materials, and execution methods in real-world projects.