The aim of the work is to define a strength criterion for layered materials, constituted by the regular superposition of layers which can be individually assumed to be homogeneous and isotropic. To this end, the homogenization theory for heterogeneous periodic media is applied to limit analysis. Dealt with are the cases of purely cohesive components, components endowed with cohesion and friction, as well as layers with friction alternated with reinforcing metallic strips (reinforced soils). The validity of the theoretical results obtained is checked through comparisons with experimental results of other researchers
