Comparative Design and Stability Analysis of Cantilever and Gravity Retaining Walls under Seismic and Traffic Loads: A Case Study of Sukodono Road, East Java

Sajiyo Sajiyo; Habib Shun’an Hafizd

Authors

Sajiyo Sajiyo Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya, Indonesia
Habib Shun’an Hafizd Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya, Indonesia

Keywords:

Bearing Capacity, Cantilever Retaining Wall, Gravity Retaining Wall, Landslide Mitigation, Seismic Load

Abstract

The Sukodono Road in East Java lies on a slope highly vulnerable to landslides due to weak soil bearing capacity, significant lateral earth pressure, heavy traffic, and seismic activity. Retaining walls are widely applied for slope stabilization; however, the selection between cantilever and gravity types is often driven by cost considerations rather than comprehensive evaluation of stability and long-term performance. This study presents a comparative design and stability analysis of cantilever and gravity retaining walls under combined seismic and traffic loads, with Sukodono Road as a case study. Field investigations, including Standard Penetration Test, direct shear, and triaxial tests, were conducted alongside traffic surveys and seismic data assessment (SNI 1726:2019). Designs were developed following SNI and AASHTO LRFD standards, with stability analyses performed for sliding, overturning, and bearing capacity under both static and dynamic conditions. Comparative evaluation incorporated safety factors, material usage, construction cost, and spatial efficiency, supported by PLAXIS numerical modeling. Results show that cantilever walls are material-efficient and require less space but are more sensitive to seismic excitation and foundation conditions. In contrast, gravity walls demonstrate superior resistance to seismic and traffic loads, albeit with higher costs and space requirements. This study introduces novelty by integrating seismic and traffic loads simultaneously in comparative retaining wall analysis, providing evidence-based recommendations for safer and more sustainable infrastructure in seismic-prone, high-traffic regions.

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