Distinctive uses of geosynthetics
October 1st, 2020
This issue of Geosynthetics takes a look at bridges, drainage/coal combustion residuals and highways/geosynthetic wall systems. It’s a diverse issue showing the breadth of geosynthetics applications. Patricia Guerra-Escobar’s “Reinforced embankments for the causeway for a North Wales bridge project” examines the use of geogrids in the replacement of a 160-year-old bridge in the U.K. “CCR […]
Geosynthetics plays a prominent role
August 1st, 2020
From the Panama Canal to coal ash containment in West Virginia to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sheet piling in several U.S. states, geosynthetics solve problems. The versatility of the different types of geosynthetics makes them useful in many situations. In “Innovative Geosynthetics Solution Saves 106-Year-Old Panama Canal Structures,” geotextile bags solve an interesting underwater erosion control […]
Drama behind the scenes
June 1st, 2020
I’m writing this from my living room, my office for now during mandatory telecommuting for all Industrial Fabrics Association International staff due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s been an experiment, thus far successful, in putting together a magazine without face-to-face meetings and with no hard copies of proofs to review. Despite the behind-the-scenes logistical drama, […]
Geosynthetics: An extraordinary handler of water
April 1st, 2020
Most geosynthetics deal with water in some shape or form. Geosynthetics are an extraordinary handler of water, whether the project involves erosion control, water storage, wastewater, stormwater, seawater or mining. This issue of Geosynthetics looks at water applications in several forms. Drainage, leak detection layers, potable water storage, a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall at […]
A dedicated man
February 1st, 2020
Erosion control and reinforcement are two applications that geosynthetics are used for. Distantly related, the two applications form the backbone of this publication. But looming large over this issue is the passing of Robert M. “Bob” Koerner and Pauline “Paula” W. Koerner, a couple who had a huge influence over the founding and development of […]
IFAI president and magazines recognized with MMPA Excellence awards
November 8th, 2019
The Minnesota Media and Publishing Association recognized IFAI president and CEO Steve Schiffman with the Hedley Donovan Award at its Annual Awards Gala. In addition, three IFAI magazines received Excellence Awards at the November 7th event. The Hedley Donovan Award, created in 1999 by the MMPA, recognizes individuals who have shown outstanding lifelong dedication and have […]
Geosynthetics are uniquely suited
October 1st, 2019
Geosynthetics are found in the strangest of places. But that just speaks to how versatile and useful they are for a wide variety of applications. Dewatering, energy-site closure, erosion control, reinforcement and stabilization are just a few applications that geosynthetics address in this issue. In addition, many of the geographic areas discussed here are sensitive […]
Geosynthetics are at the ready
August 1st, 2019
Geosynthetics play a varied and important role in infrastructure, from liners and covers for reservoirs to landfill covers. They can be found in highway construction and in coal ash impoundments. They are part of the basic framework of public and private construction, supporting modern expectations for transportation, sanitation and reliable energy. The American Society of […]
Geosynthetics for reinforcement and stabilization
June 1st, 2019
Geosynthetics are widely used for reinforcement and stabilization, particularly in transportation-related applications, including base stabilization, reinforced soil slopes (RSS) and mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls. This issue of Geosynthetics considers many such applications from multiple viewpoints. Sachin Mandavkar and Mehari Weldu look at very tall MSE walls and RSS through several case studies in “Geogrid […]
Infrastructure funding remains uncertain
April 1st, 2019
Nearly a year has gone by since we published the June/July 2018 issue with a theme of “Geosynthetics Used in Highways and Bridges.” The editorial in that issue noted, “As of this writing, the White House and U.S. Congress are working on an infrastructure bill or bills after President Donald Trump released an infrastructure proposal […]