TRC2104 Inspection and Maintenance Guidelines for Mechanically Stabilized Earth Walls

This report outlines the results of a comprehensive study focused on enhancing maintenance and inspection practices for mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls. The project was sponsored by the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), and its central objectives were to formulate the best management practices for MSE wall maintenance and develop a comprehensive inspector’s guidebook. To address a gap in the existing literature, the research focused on creating a manual that provides inspection procedures, maintenance guidance, and repair strategies to mitigate distress signs such as panel movement, cracking, and backfill material loss. The methodology encompassed a thorough review of documented MSE wall issues, a nationwide survey yielding insights from 44 state Departments of Transportation, consultations with MSE wall manufacturers, and hands-on site inspections in Arkansas. These efforts were instrumental in creating a geographic information system database cataloging ARDOT's MSE walls, informed by both the survey findings and expert consultation. The resultant maintenance inspector’s guidebook presents a step-by-step inspection framework, grading for distress severity, and tailored repair recommendations. This guidebook was piloted with assistance from ARDOT and was updated as needed to ensure smooth implementation into current maintenance practices within the agency. The project’s multi-faceted approach ultimately seeks to enhance the longevity and reliability of the MSE wall infrastructure and serve as a pivotal resource for maintenance personnel.

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Completed
• Contract Numbers:

  TRC2104

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Arkansas Department of Transportation

  P.O. Box 2261
  Little Rock, AR  United States  72203
• Project Managers:

  Romano, Kim

• Performing Organizations:

  University of Arkansas, Fayetteville

  4190 Bell Engineering
  Civil Engineering
  Fayetteville, Arkansas  United States  72701
• Principal Investigators:

  Barry, Michael

  Coffman, Richard

• Start Date: 20201130
• Expected Completion Date: 0
• Actual Completion Date: 20241200

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Best practices; Earth walls; Inspection; Maintenance management; Mechanically stabilized earth
• Geographic Terms: Arkansas
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Geotechnology; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01979454
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Arkansas Department of Transportation
• Contract Numbers: TRC2104
• Files: RIP, STATEDOT
• Created Date: Feb 13 2026 10:51AM