Mechanically stabilized earth

A diagram of a mechanically stabilized earth wall as it would be modeled in a finite element analysis.

Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE or reinforced soil) is soil constructed with artificial reinforcing. It can be used for retaining walls, bridge abutments, seawalls, and dikes.[1][2] Although the basic principles of MSE have been used throughout history, MSE was developed in its current form in the 1960s. The reinforcing elements used can vary but include steel and geosynthetics.

MSE is the term usually used in the US to distinguish it from the trade name "Reinforced Earth". Elsewhere "reinforced soil" is the generally accepted term.

  1. ^ "Mechanically Stabilized Earth Structures". Archived from the original on December 16, 2005. Retrieved 2007-01-27.
  2. ^ "Mechanically Stabilized Earth Wall Inspector's Handbook" (PDF). Florida Department of Transportation. Retrieved 2007-01-27.