Model tests and numerical simulations with the Distinct-Element-Method to spatial passive earth pressure

The growing urban development in connection with a closer approach of excavations to existing buildings requires a more careful dimensioning of the excavation walls which specially refers to the movement of retaining walls. For more realistic investigations own model experiments were planned, made and analysed. New testing and measuring methods were developed which for the first time made it possible to record stress distributions along girders. The Distinct-Element-Method (DEM) was extended and improved to enable the numerical simulation of load tests. This method allows to describe the experiments with an adequate accuracy. Based on this knowledge, conditions not covered by experiments could be simulated by means of the DEM. Accordingly, the test matrix could be extended.