7 - Geosynthetics in geo-infrastructure applications

Abstract

Geosynthetic materials primarily made of various polymers provide excellent durability and have been increasingly used in civil and transportation infrastructure projects. The authors described an overview of the various geosynthetic materials, brief details on manufacturing processes, and various application areas in infrastructure works. Four infrastructure case studies using different geosynthetic materials including geocells, geotextiles, geofoam, geofibers, and others are described to explain the role of these materials in enhancing the performance of transportation and civil infrastructure including pavements, bridge approach slabs, dams, and embankments. The relevant material properties and design methodologies applied are also described in these case studies. Overall, it can be mentioned that geosynthetic polymeric materials and their durable performance characteristics make them excellent materials for the construction and renovation of civil infrastructure works. Sustainability and life cycle cost studies will provide more insights into these materials and how they can reduce maintenance costs in the longer design life periods.