Abstract
A high density polyethylene (HDPE) uniaxial geogrid was exhumed after twenty years of service in a sanitary landfill, and its properties were examined. A geogrid installed in a landfill is exposed to mechanical and chemical factors (e.g., a wide pH range and high temperatures), as well as different weather conditions. This paper presents the results of physical and mechanical analyses of virgin and aged HDPE geogrid samples. Structural changes observed by differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectroscopy correlate with the mechanical properties of the aged geogrid. The mechanical properties were found to have changed only slightly. In the FT-IR spectrum of the topmost layer of the aged geogrid samples, no significant changes were observed compared to the spectrum of the top layer of the virgin samples. This indicates the strong chemical resistance of the HDPE material, which is able to withstand environmental conditions for at least 20 years of service in a landfill.
Highlights
Geogrids are widely used as reinforcements in slopes, walls, roads, and foundations where they are subjected to constant stress throughout their service life [1,2,3]
The results reveal that the degree of crystallinity for the aged samples is higherscanning than the calorimetry crystallinity(DSC)
high density polyethylene (HDPE) geogrids analyzed after 20 years of continuous service in a municipal waste
Summary
Geogrids are widely used as reinforcements in slopes, walls, roads, and foundations where they are subjected to constant stress throughout their service life [1,2,3]. Uniaxial high density polyethylene (HDPE) geogrids are designed to be used in geotechnical structures where soil particles need support over long time periods. HDPE geogrids, due to their high strength and durability, are commonly used for the construction of steep slopes, where the rigid nodes of the geogrids are used to wedge soil in the mesh of the geogrids. Grain aggregates or soil particles pass through the geogrid mesh, partly clogging the spaces between the ribs. The strength and stiffness of the ribs prevent the displacement of soils on the sides but may lead to mechanical damage of the material [3,4,5]. The grid interaction with soil is a complex phenomenon and depends on several factors, such as soil type and density, grid geometry and mechanical properties, surface roughness, stress levels, and boundary and loading conditions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
