Mercurial matter: Puzzling out PFAS removal in landfills
August 1st, 2023
A contaminant whose importance appears to have grown significantly in recent years, poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) present a challenge to pollution management given their apparent toxicity – although a clear picture is still emerging – and persistence. The tag “forever chemicals” is clearly very appropriate for a class of synthetic compounds whose unusual molecular […]
Four Pillars Of Geosynthetic Sustainability
August 1st, 2023
Q: How is geosynthetic sustainability as compared with conventional construction materials like soil, concrete and steel? A: The four pillars of sustainability are human, social, economic and environmental. Geosynthetics are winners when compared to conventional alternatives in all four areas. To substantiate this assertion I would strongly recommend that you have a look at the […]
Cross USA Lecture Tour
August 1st, 2023
If you haven’t had a chance to catch the Geo-Institute (G-I) of the American Society of Civil Engineers 2022–2023 Cross-USA Lecture Tour, you still have a few opportunities to do so. This ongoing program for local G-I chapters and graduate student organizations is available to enhance the prestige of the geoprofession. It allows the G-I […]
Bridging or trampolining during liner installation
August 1st, 2023
Q: Why is it required that there be no bridging or trampolining during liner installation at any temperature? A: Bridging or trampolining is common at breaks in grade at most installation, particularly in cool mornings at a jobsite. If backfilled in this state, the geomembrane would be stressed and could yield or, worse yet, rupture […]
Equipment on deployed geosynthetics
August 1st, 2023
Q: I’m hoping you can resolve a disagreement among coworkers regarding construction quality assurance (CQA). I’m asking what is published and/or your opinion. It involves traffic on geomembrane. Is it now industry standard to allow skid steers and/or ATVs to operate directly on a geomembrane? It is assumed no turning, spinning, etc. Technical specifications typically […]
Seeding procedures for erosion control blankets and turf reinforcement mats
August 1st, 2023
Q: Do I seed below or above erosion control blankets (ECBs) or turf reinforcement mats (TRMs)? A: Ouch! This is a trick question. There are different seeding procedures for ECBs and TRMs. For ECBs, it is always better to seed first, then install the ECB. This puts the seed directly on the soil (where the […]
The challenge of geomembrane wild edge thickness
August 1st, 2023
Q: Over the past several years, we have seen a reduction in thickness of the weld edge (smooth edge) of textured geomembranes. This is presenting a challenge for installers when trying to achieve passing trial seams in the field prior to production welding. Destructive seam tests are passing, but just barely (10% above GM19a or […]
ATA restructures several divisions, launches redesigned website
August 1st, 2023
After much thought and discussion with its board of directors, division advisory board leadership and other stakeholders, the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) has restructured some of its divisions to create greater member engagement, improve staff and volunteer efficiency, and allow for a focus on broader initiatives that affect more of its members. These structural […]
Best practices-Working toward zero leaks
August 1st, 2023
FIGURE 1 The S-100 Spark Tester was used to perform testing on both the primary and secondary barriers to detect any leaks that may have occurred during installation. The Uinta Basin in northeast Utah is known for its extensive in-place oil shale resource. Because this area produces crude with low containment levels, it contributes to […]
’23 summer highlights
August 1st, 2023
It’s been another busy summer for the Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA) and that activity will continue into the fall. We kicked off the summer in early May with our second Geosynthetic Infrastructure Morning at the Outlook Conference held at the Westin Poinsett in downtown Greenville, S.C. Two years into the implementation of the Infrastructure Investment […]