Geotextile impact testing
June 1st, 2022
Q: We would like to carry out an impact test on geotextiles as described in Koerner (2012), Chapter 2.3.3 Mechanical Properties-Impact Test and Chapter 2.5.5 Impact (Tear) Resistance. I came across the Geosynthetic Research Institute (GRI) GS2 Test Method for Rupture Strength of Geosynthetics by Pendulum Impact testing standard. My questions regard the test apparatus […]
Stacking GCL rolls
June 1st, 2022
Q: I have a question regarding the storage and handling of geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) rolls. The manufacturer allows stacking up to five GCL rolls. Is this okay? A: The answer depends on the subgrade under the stacked GCL rolls and the equipment you are using to handle the rolls. In a manufacturing plant, with […]
GMA honors Jie Han with Dr. Robert M. Koerner Award and Lecture Series
June 1st, 2021
The Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA), led by a Koerner awardee selection task force, selected Jie Han, Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE, as the recipient of the 2021–23 Dr. Robert M. Koerner Award and Lecture Series. The award and lecture series is named for the late Robert M. Koerner, Ph.D., the founder of the Geosynthetic Institute (GSI). “I […]
The GMA Techline is 15 years old
February 1st, 2020
By Robert M. Koerner The GMA Techline was initiated on Sept. 1, 2004, as a free worldwide answer center for questions involving any, or all, aspects of geosynthetics. There were no constraints put on the questioners, or on the answers that were provided by the Geosynthetic Institute (GSI). To date, 3,500 Q and As have […]
In Memoriam: Robert M. Koerner
February 1st, 2020
The geosynthetics community is deeply saddened by the news of Robert M. and Pauline W. Koerner’s passing. The couple leaves a lasting legacy through their creation of the Geosynthetic Institute, their philanthropy, and their many accomplishments professionally and personally. Bob Koerner was a pioneer of geosynthetics, an influencer with a long record of geosynthetics achievements. […]
GMA happenings
February 1st, 2020
Letter from the chair As I sat down to write this update of all the great things GMA has been doing, my computer screen interrupted me with an email, and now I type with a heavy heart as the email announced the passing of Robert M. Koerner. I had the privilege of knowing Bob for […]
Geosynthetics pioneer Robert M. Koerner and wife pass away
December 3rd, 2019
Robert M. Koerner and his wife Pauline W. Koerner have passed away. The Koerner family has released information on their passing to GSI Members. The notice to the Geosynthetic Institute (GSI) says, “It is with regret and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert M. and Pauline W. Koerner. As you know Bob was […]
GSI to host webinar on geosynthetic reinforced MSE walls
December 2nd, 2019
The Geosynthetic Institute (GSI) will sponsor a webinar, “Geosynthetic Reinforced MSE Walls; Overview, Failures and Items for Improvement” on Dec. 11, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST. Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA) member companies and their employees receive discounted rates on all GSI webinar and short course registrations. Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls represent a […]
GSI to host webinar on soil consolidation using wick drains
November 13th, 2019
The Geosynthetic Institute (GSI) will sponsor a webinar, “Soil Consolidation Using Wick Drains, aka PVDs,” on Nov. 27, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST. Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA) member companies and their employees receive discounted rates on all GSI webinar and short course registrations. Wick drains, also called prefabricated vertical drains or PVDs, consist […]
GSI to host webinar on disposal of coal combustion residuals
October 30th, 2019
The Geosynthetic Institute (GSI) will sponsor a webinar, “Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals,” on Nov. 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST. Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA) member companies and their employees receive discounted rates on all GSI webinar and short course registrations. With coal representing more than 25% of energy sources, the disposal of […]