Environmental applications of geosynthetics in pipeline installations

June 1, 2016  |  Case Studies

Geo + Pipeline 101 Geosynthetics often play an important role on the environmental side of pipeline installations. During construction, actions must be taken to protect water quality, stabilize soil, and prevent soil erosion. Pipeline right-of-ways traverse many different types of landscapes, passin…
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‘Largest green roof in the world’ proposed for Silicon Valley project

June 1, 2016  |  Case Studies

Last year, Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly unveiled plans to convert an ageing shopping center in California’s Silicon Valley into a vast development featuring the world’s largest green roof. Viñoly, the architect behind London’s controversial Walkie Talkie building and the skinny 432 Park…
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Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway frost heave prevention and results

April 1, 2016  |  Case Studies

Abstract The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, located about 30 miles (48km) west of Dillon, Mont., seasonally experiences frost heave problems over a 20-mile (30-km) stretch of road. The road is closed to winter traffic and typically re-opens in May. Longitudinal full-section depth cracks form during…
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Bridge building in Maine with GRS (geosynthetic-reinforced soil)

April 1, 2016  |  Case Studies

The challenge In 2013, the small town of North Haven on North Haven Island off the coast of Maine, began construction on a unique bridge project. The goal was to rebuild Beach Bridge, a deteriorating structure that provided access to a handful of seasonal homes and an important wharf for local lobst…
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Using geosynthetic materials to effectively close a coal ash pond

October 1, 2015  |  Case Studies

Introduction Many electric utilities are required by the U.S. Environmetal Protection Agency’s (EPA) recently published Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals from Electric Utilities Rule to evaluate and address closure options for historical coal ash storage areas. EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy …
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GRS-IBS Makes Quick Work of Bridge Replacement

September 9, 2015  |  Case Studies

When flooding forced the closure of the Jessup Mill Road Bridge over Edward’s Run in Mantua Township, New Jersey, county officials turned to a quick but effective solution to reopen the vital community link: geosynthetic reinforced soil–integrated bridge system technology. “We had observed the…
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‘Subtitle C’ mixed waste embankment cover system

August 1, 2015  |  Case Studies

Introduction This case history focuses on the construction of a crucial thin rock layer over geosynthetics and the solution encountered during the first construction phase of an RCRA Subtitle C embankment cover system at a hazardous and radioactive disposal site. The top and 5:1 sideslopes of the co…
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Part 1 Durability of geosynthetics: The basics

August 1, 2015  |  Case Studies

By John H. Greenwood Author’s note This article is based on a training presentation delivered on Sept. 24, 2014, at the 10th International Conference on Geosynthetics in Berlin, Germany. That talk was itself based on courses given at ERA Technology, Leatherhead, U.K., with Alan Friday, and later a…
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Instrumented MSE wall reinforced with polyester straps

August 1, 2015  |  Case Studies

Emerging technology Introduction Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls with large concrete panel facing, reinforced with polyester straps, is an emerging technology in the U.S. To enable the design of this wall system using AASHTO’s methodology, its classification of extensibility must be esta…
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Geosynthetics & Landfills 101

June 1, 2015  |  Case Studies

Erosion control challenges at solid waste facilities By Eric S. Steinhauser Introduction Landfills, particularly municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills, are often misunderstood. Commonly referred to as “dumps,” these highly engineered facilities, and the engineering project teams involved in thei…
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