Geosynthetic reinforced walls and steep slopes: Is it magic?

June 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

By Dov Leshchinsky Introduction The history of humankind indicates that most people, arguably, embrace magic. Adding exotic ceremonies turns magic into voodoo. While magic is based on uncritical thinking, relying on it in engineering is undesirable because it could lead to overly expensive structure…
Read More
Geosynthetic materials play a major role in new underground stormwater detention system

June 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

By Terence G. Sheridan, P.E. Introduction Stormwater management is an ever-increasing expense on site development projects. Stormwater detention ponds are designed to protect against downstream flooding and environmental degradation. The standard of practice is to ensure that post-development flow f…
Read More
MSE walls support laterally loaded drilled shafts

June 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

A new take on sound-barrier walls. By Jie Han, Robert Parsons, Matthew Pierson, and James Brennan Introduction When residential areas are close to highways, sound barrier walls are often constructed to minimize noise from traffic on those roads. Under certain circumstances, mechanically stabilized e…
Read More
Delays, cost, performance are key issues for reef

June 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

A one-year delay in construction, with nearly double the initial cost estimates, and surfing conditions not meeting expectations have all been part of the experience for the first artificial surfing reef in Europe, which opened earlier this year off the south coast of England. Geosynthetics referenc…
Read More
Building bridges the geosynthetic-reinforced soil way

June 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

From Defiance County, Ohio, to Yamhill County, Oregon, building bridges using geosynthetic-reinforced soil is gaining popularity for its effectiveness, efficiency, and time-saving simplicity. This methodology was first featured in Geosynthetics in August 2006, with a follow-up in April 2008. Defianc…
Read More
Backfill depleted open-pit mines with lined landfills, tailings, and heap leach pads

April 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

By Allan J. Breitenbach Abstract Landfills, tailings impoundments, and heap leach pads are the largest and highest geomembrane-lined fill structures in the world. These lined structures require large areas for storage and containment of solid wastes, precious or base metal mill waste tailings, and o…
Read More
Geotextile tubes are integral components for oil-pipe foundations, erosion control

April 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

PEMEX marine facilities in Tabasco, Mexico. By Alfonso Solís, Amy Tang, and Zoe Lin Abstract In this project, geotextile tube technology is adopted as part of an integral solution for beach erosion problems at the Dos Bocas marine facilities for Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX). The solutions desi…
Read More
What do you want from your green roof?

April 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

All green roofs include multiple underlayers of materials that, together, protect the building and provide the conditions for the top-layer plantings to thrive. Chief among these layers are geosynthetic materials required for separation, waterproofing, and drainage. This article includes selections …
Read More
Synthetic turf system stops erosion … for starters

February 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

Quest for erosion control delivers additional benefits. By Alexandria Hayes Introduction After four years as a district landfill manager for IESI Corp., Delaney Lewis was discouraged. Although one of the Louisiana landfills for which he was responsible exhibited ideal geology, the soil characteristi…
Read More
After the typhoon in Taiwan: Testament to an award-winning reinforced slope

February 1, 2010  |  Case Studies

Ace Geosynthetics wins top prize in 2009 International Achievement Awards By Ron Bygness, editor, Geosynthetics Aug. 7–10, 2009, were devastating days in Taiwan, when Typhoon Morakot struck the island directly. The waves of unrelenting rain and wind proved to be the deadliest typhoon ever to s…
Read More