6. Glossary

Angle de frottement interne; Internal friction angle

Parameter characterizing the shear strength of a soil, influencing the stability of retaining structures.

Barbican; Weep hole

Opening made in a retaining wall to allow water accumulated behind the wall to drain away.

Reinforced concrete ; Béton armé

Composite material consisting of concrete and steel bars. The concrete resists compressive forces, while the steel reinforcement absorbs tensile forces.

Stop; Passive resistance

The force opposing the earth pressure exerted by the soil in front of the retaining wall is often neglected in calculations, as it requires significant displacement to mobilize.

Coefficient de sécurité; Safety factor...