Yeager Airport Failure

Stability and Stress-Deformation Analyses of Reinforced Slope Failure at Yeager Airport and Lessons learnt from forensic investigations and modelling

Dr. Jim Collin and Ryan R. Berg

Construction of this 67 meter high RSS was completed in December 2006. After seven years in-service, a tension crack was observed at the top of the slope. In March 2015 this RSS structure catastrophically collapsed. This RSS structure collapsed in a compound failure mode; as the failure plane passed beneath, partially behind, and partially through the reinforced soil mass. The RSS collapse occurred after 8.3 years in-service as the shear strength along the shale-claystone foundation interface decreased and approached the fully softened strength. This webinar will cover the forensic investigation, stress-strain analysis and modelling performed, the causes of the failure and lessons learned.

This event is hosted in partnership with American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Australia Section.

Engineers Australia members participating in AGS technical sessions can record attendance on their personal CPD logs. Members should refer to Engineers Australia CPD policy for details on CPD types, requirements and auditing guidelines.