Civil Engineering Applications Research Articles

Optimized systems of multi-layer perceptron predictive model for estimating pile-bearing capacity

The primary goal of this research is to leverage the advancements in machine learning techniques to forecast the bearing capacity of piles effectively. Accurately predicting load-bearing capability is an indispensable aspect in the field of substructure engineering. It is worth noting that determining load-bearing capability via in-place burden tests is a resource-intensive and labor-intensive process. This study presents a pragmatic soft computing methodology to tackle the aforementioned challenge, employing a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) for the estimation of load-bearing capacity. The dataset employed in this research encompasses a multitude of field-based pile load tests, with a meticulous selection of the most impactful factors influencing pile-bearing capacity as input variables. For a comprehensive comparative analysis, genetic algorithm-based optimizers (Crystal Structure Algorithm (CSA) and Fox Optimization (FOX)) were incorporated with MLP, leading to the development of hybrid models referred to as MLFO and MLSC, both structured with three layers. The performance of these models was rigorously evaluated using five key performance indices. The findings indicated a consistent superiority of MLFO over MLSC across all three layers. Remarkably, MLFO exhibited exceptional performance in the second layer (MLFO (2)), boasting an impressive R2 value of 0.992, an RMSE of 33.470, and a minimal SI value of 0.031. On the other hand, MLCS (1) registered the lowest accuracy in predicting the process with the least R2 value related to the validation phase of the model with 0.953. Taken together, these results affirm that the optimized MLP model stands as a valuable and practical tool for accurately estimating pile-bearing capacity in civil engineering applications.

Post-fire compressive behavior of CFRP stirrups reinforced CFST columns: Experimental investigation and calculation models

This paper investigates the post-fire compressive behavior of CFST columns reinforced with CFRP strip stirrups. CFRP materials possess higher tensile strength than steel, making them promising candidates to enhance the ductility of high strength concrete when properly confined. However, direct exposure to fire leads to burning and rapid loss of tensile capacity in CFRP materials. To mitigate this, the study explores embedding CFRP stirrups in concrete to provide additional confinement besides the steel tube which prevents fire penetration through concrete cracks and protects the CFRP stirrups. Through experimental tests and comparisons with steel stirrups reinforced counterparts, it was observed that the CFRP stirrups, even after heating, still provided confinement to the concrete core as the overlapping joints of the strips remained intact. The failure mode observed in the CFRP stirrups was the rupture of FRP, rather than debonding of overlapping joints. Additionally, the use of CFRP stirrups led to reduced concrete temperatures and significantly higher unit enhancement in residual load-bearing capacity for the CFST columns compared to steel stirrups. Practical calculation models were developed to estimate the historical maximum temperatures and residual load-bearing capacity of the CFRP stirrups reinforced CFST columns, regardless of whether high strength or normal strength concrete was used. The calculated values demonstrated good agreement with experimental results. This study provides valuable insights into the performance of CFRP stirrups reinforced CFST columns under post-fire conditions, highlighting their potential as effective fire-resistant and structurally efficient solutions in civil engineering applications.

Hydration properties of magnesium phosphate cement paste mixed with metakaolin and silica fume

AbstractMagnesium phosphate cement (MPC) exhibits a faster setting time and higher early strength, making it suitable for crack repair. However, its application in civil engineering is hindered by its fast initial hydration rate and poor water resistance. To address these limitations, metakaolin (MK) and silica fume (SF) were utilized to enhance the properties of MPC. The effects of MK and SF on the setting time, compressive strength, water resistance, hydration process, and microstructure of MPC were investigated. The results demonstrate that both MK and SF significantly prolong the setting time of MPC and improve its water resistance. The main hydration products of MPC, after incorporating MK and SF, are k‐struvite (MgKPO4·6H2O) and unreacted MgO. The presence of MgSiO3 and AlPO4 also contributes to the enhancement of compressive strength and water resistance. The incorporation of MK and SF actively participates in the hydration reaction of the MPC system. Furthermore, MgSiO3 and AlPO4 intertwine with MKP, resulting in a denser internal structure of the cured MPC, thereby improving its water resistance.

Flexural behavior of LVL made from Australian radiata pine

As a commonly used engineering wood in modern timber constructions, laminated veneer lumber (LVL), produced from small-diameter wood, short-dimension wood, or fast-growing wood, significantly enhances material properties to meet the mechanical and physical requirements in structural engineering. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of utilizing fast-growing Australian radiata pine to produce structural LVL, providing essential theoretical support for its application in civil engineering. The investigation focuses specifically on Australian radiata pine LVL (RP-LVL) and involves a systematic experimental study to assess the bending performance of RP-LVL under various bending directions and specimen sizes. The findings reveal that the edgewise bending strength of RP-LVL is comparatively lower than its flatwise bending strength. Nevertheless, RP-LVL exhibits superior bending strength compared to conventional glulam and dimensional lumber, rendering it an attractive and suitable building material for achieving enhanced bending performance in flexure members. Moreover, the study identifies significant influences of height and width on the bending strength of RP-LVL. Consequently, prediction method is proposed to calculate the bending strength of RP-LVL, considering these size influences. Importantly, the size influences on bending strength are quantified to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the bending capacity of RP-LVL flexure members.

Synergistic effect of recycling waste coconut shell ash, metakaolin, and calcined clay as supplementary cementitious material on hardened properties and embodied carbon of high strength concrete

Researchers are investigating eco-friendly binders like coconut shell ash (CSA), metakaolin (MK), and calcined clay (CC) as supplementary cementitious materials (SCM) in high-strength concrete (HSC). Abundantly available as industrial or agricultural waste, these materials, when combined with Portland cement (PC), offer synergistic benefits. This not only improves concrete performance but also addresses waste disposal issues, presenting a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for long-term use in HSC production. However, this study performed on fresh and mechanical characteristics of HSC blended with CSA, MK, and CCA alone and together as SCM after 28 days of curing. A total of 504 samples of standard concrete were cast and the cubical samples were tested to achieve the targeted compressive strength about 80 MPa after 28 days. The experimental results indicated that the rise in tensile, flexural and compressive strengths of 9.62%, 8.27%, and 10.71% at 9% of CSA, MK, and CC as SCM after 28 days of curing. As SCM content increases, the density, porosity and water absorption of concrete decrease. Moreover, the workability of fresh concrete is getting reduced when the concentration of SCMs increases in HSC. In addition, the concrete's sustainability assessment revealed that employing 18% MK, CC, and CSA as SCM reduced carbon emissions by approximately 11.78%. It is suggested that using 9% CC, MK and CSA together in HSC yields the best results for practical applications in civil engineering.

The Incorporation of Spent Coffee Grounds as an Additive in Cement Ventilation Blocks

Introduction The growing coffee industry has created a lot of waste in the form of spent coffee grounds (SCG), mainly disposed of through landfills. Recycling them into concrete construction products helps reduce their carbon effect on the atmosphere. According to earlier investigations, the SCGs have potential usage as supplemental construction materials across various civil engineering applications. However, the absence of thorough research and successful practical implementations in the sector necessitate further detailed studies in ventilation block application. Aims This study investigates the workability, compressive strength, water absorption and thermal performance of cement mortar containing different percentages of SCG in ventilation block production. Methods Cement, sand, and water with the 1: 2.75: 0.6 ratio and different percentages of SCG are used in the mortar mix as additives. The specimens were cast in cubes (50 mm x 50 mm x 50 mm) to investigate the workability, strength, water absorption and dry density. Further, the ideal mix was chosen to produce ventilation blocks. The prototype cubicles made from the SCG ventilation blocks were used for continuous indoor temperature monitoring. Results The results show that adding high amounts of SCGs into mortar has decreased workability and compressive strength in cement mortar blocks. However, the water absorption has reduced with the increased percentage of SCG added to the mix. Based on the results, the SCG0.75 is the most suitable ratio to be used as it showed a flowability of 48%, a compressive strength of 12.574 MPa and water absorption of 6.107%, which is ideal for producing the ventilation block. In addition, the temperature monitoring results showed a reduction in the indoor temperature that used the SCG ventilation block. Conclusion This result suggests incorporating SCG in the ventilation block requires a suitable percentage of the SCG to fulfill the workability and strength of the block. Nevertheless, it may reduce indoor temperature, thus providing better thermal comfort. This study enables the SCG waste products to be used as sustainable materials in ventilation block production.

Harnessing Path Optimization to Enhance the Strength of Three-Dimensional (3D) Printed Concrete

The path-dependent strength of three-dimensional printed concrete (3DPC) hinders further engineering application. Printing path optimization is a feasible solution to improve the strength of 3DPC. Here, the mix ratio of 3DPC was studied to print standard concrete specimens with different printing paths using our customized concrete 3D printer, which features fully sealed extrusion and ultrathin nozzles. These paths include crosswise, vertical, arched, and diagonal patterns. Their flexural and compressive strengths were tested. In order to verify the tested results and expose the mechanism of strength enhancement, digital image correlation (DIC) was used to capture the dynamic gradual fracture in the flexural tests. Also, the meso- and microstructures of the 3D-printed concrete specimens were pictured. The results reported here show that arched-path concrete has 30% more flexural strength than others because it makes better use of filament-wise strength. The findings here provide a pathway to improve the strength of 3D-printed concrete by path optimization, boosting 3DPC’s extensive application in civil engineering.

The study on the properties of a metamaterial composed of star-shaped auxetic and curved-beam multi-stable structure

This article presents the design of a new metamaterial with adjustable Poisson’s ratio and multi-stability, which combines two common metamaterial structures: star-shaped auxetic and multi-stability. The range of negative Poisson’s ratio variation for the unit structure is 0.2433. The negative Poisson’s ratio shows an increasing trend followed by a decrease with the increase in compression displacement. The peak compression displacement is 12 mm, and the peak negative Poisson’s ratio is −0.1499. Simultaneously, the structure exhibits good shape memory properties, with a shape memory recovery ratio of R rx = 94.18% in the y-axis direction and R ry = 91.20% in the x-axis direction. The shape memory recovery time is 35.10 s. The combination of experimental testing and finite element analysis was employed to verify the functionality of the adjustable Poisson’s ratio in the structure. Special attention was given to investigating the structural parameters such as the type of curved-beam, the angle of the star-shaped structure, the width of the star-shaped structure, and the connection method for their effects on the shape memory effect and the range, peak value, and peak compression displacement of the negative Poisson’s ratio in the unit structure. Based on the characteristics of the novel metamaterial, including a significant increase in stiffness upon compression and controllable deformation sequence, it can be used as a buffering device in protective engineering and civil engineering applications.

(R, S)-(Skew) Symmetric Solutions to Matrix Equation AXB = C over Quaternions

(R,S)-(skew) symmetric matrices have numerous applications in civil engineering, information theory, numerical analysis, etc. In this paper, we deal with the (R,S)-(skew) symmetric solutions to the quaternion matrix equation AXB=C. We use a real representation Aτ to obtain the necessary and sufficient conditions for AXB=C to have (R,S)-(skew) symmetric solutions and derive the solutions when it is consistent. We also derive the least-squares (R,S)-(skew) symmetric solution to the above matrix equation.

Reapplication Potential of Historic Pb–Zn Slag with Regard to Zero Waste Principles

Smelting used to be less efficient; therefore, wastes obtained from historical processing at smelter plants usually contain certain quantities of valuable metals. Upon the extraction of useful metal elements, metallurgical slag can be repurposed as an alternative mineral raw material in the building sector. A case study was conducted, which included an investigation of the physico-chemical, mineralogical, and microstructural properties of Pb–Zn slag found at the historic landfill near the Topilnica Veles smelter in North Macedonia. The slag was sampled using drill holes. The mineralogical and microstructural analysis revealed that Pb–Zn slag is a very complex and inhomogeneous alternative raw material with utilizable levels of metals, specifically Pb (2.3 wt.%), Zn (7.1 wt.%), and Ag (27.5 ppm). Crystalline mineral phases of wurtzite, sphalerite, galena, cerussite, akermanite, wüstite, monticellite, franklinite, and zincite were identified in the analyzed samples. The slag’s matrix consisted of alumino-silicates, amorphous silicates, and mixtures of spinel and silicates. Due to the economic potential of Pb, Zn, and Ag extraction, the first stage of reutilization will be to transform metal concentrates into their collective concentrate, from which the maximum amount of these crucial components can be extracted. This procedure will include combination of gravity concentration and separation techniques. The next step is to assess the Pb–Zn slag’s potential applications in civil engineering, based on its mineralogical and physico-mechanical properties. Alumino-silicates present in Pb–Zn slag, which contain high concentrations of SiO2, Al2O3, CaO, and Fe2O3, are suitable for use in cementitious building composites. The goal of this research is to suggest a solution by which to close the circle of slag’s reutilization in terms of zero waste principles. It is therefore critical to thoroughly investigate the material, the established methods and preparation processes, and the ways of concentrating useful components into commercial products.

Dynamic mechanical response and damage constitutive model of end-jointed rock bridge with different water content states under impact load

In rock slope engineering, the dynamic mechanical behavior of rocks is significantly influenced by the length of rock bridges and their moisture content. This study explored the dynamic characteristics of defective rocks under impact loads through dynamic impact tests on specimens varying in rock bridge lengths and moisture states, conducted using a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB). The experimental results revealed that both moisture state and rock bridge length markedly affect the dynamic compressive strength and elastic modulus. Additionally, there is a significant correlation between the energy dissipation density and the specimen's moisture state and rock bridge length. The failure process, captured via a high-speed camera, exhibited a transition in fracture mode from predominantly tensile to tensile-shear failure with increasing rock bridge length. Moreover, an enhanced ZWT model was developed and validated for the dynamic damage constitutive model of defective rocks. This model, incorporating four parameters, precisely characterizes the stress–strain relationship of defective rocks under high strain rates and effectively demonstrates the dynamic response of rocks with varying rock bridge lengths and moisture states. The findings of this study are vital for advancing the understanding of rock dynamics in varying conditions and offer significant insights for geological and civil engineering applications, particularly in the design and assessment of rock structure stability in slopes.

Experimental and numerical study of in-plane uniaxial compression response of PU foam filled aluminum arrowhead auxetic honeycomb

PurposeAuxetics metamaterials show high performance in their specific characteristics, while the absolute stiffness and strength are much weaker due to substantial porosity. This paper aims to propose a novel auxetic honeycomb structure manufactured using selective laser melting and study the enhanced mechanical performance when subjected to in-plane compression loading.Design/methodology/approachA novel composite structure was designed and fabricated on the basis of an arrowhead auxetic honeycomb and filled with polyurethane foam. The deformation mechanism and mechanical responses of the structure with different structural parameters were investigated experimentally and numerically. With the verified simulation models, the effects of parameters on compression strength and energy absorption characteristics were further discussed through parametric analysis.FindingsA good agreement was achieved between the experimental and simulation results, showing an evidently enhanced compression strength and energy absorption capacity. The interaction between the auxetic honeycomb and foam reveals to exploit a reinforcement effect on the compression performance. The parametric analysis indicates that the composite with smaller included angel and higher foam density exhibits higher plateau stress and better specific energy absorption, while increasing strut thickness is undesirable for high energy absorption efficiency.Originality/valueThe results of this study served to demonstrate an enhanced mechanical performance for the foam filled auxetic honeycomb, which is expected to be exploited with applications in aerospace, automobile, civil engineering and protective devices. The findings of this study can provide numerical and experimental references for the design of structural parameters.

A stochastic model based on Gaussian random fields to characterize the morphology of granular objects

The geometrical modeling of granular objects is a complex challenge that exists in many scientific fields, such as the modeling of granular materials or rocks and coarse aggregates with applications in civil, mechanical, and chemical engineering. In this paper, a model called SPHERE (Stochastic Process for Highly Effective Radial Expansion) is proposed, which is based on the deformation of an ellipsoid mesh using multiple 3D Gaussian random fields. The model is designed to be flexible (full control over 2D and 3D morphological properties of granular objects), ultra-fast (over 1000 aggregates in less than 5 s), and independent of the mesh and base shape used (as long as it is a star-shaped object). The flexibility of the model and its ability to reflect real data is illustrated using images of latex nanoparticle aggregates. Using 2D measurements on images from a morphogranulometer, a method based on the SPHERE model is proposed to estimate the 3D morphological properties of aggregates. A multiscale optimization process is applied, in particular using a partial reconstruction of 2D shapes from elliptic Fourier descriptors, in order to best reproduce the shape, angularity and texture of the aggregates using the SPHERE model. Validation of the method on 3D printed data shows relative errors of less than 3% for all measured 2D and 3D morphological characteristics, and validation on a population of synthetic objects shows relative errors of less than 6%. The results are compared and discussed with those obtained using other models based on overlapping spheres and show consistency with previous work. Finally, suggestions for improvement are given.

Auxetic structures in civil engineering applications: Experimental (by 3D printing) and numerical investigation of mechanical behavior

Auxetic materials are a group of metamaterials that have a negative Poisson's ratio. The most important advantage of auxetics over conventional materials is higher energy absorption. Consequently, in Civil Engineering, a wide range of applications may be considered for auxetic materials including energy absorber structural elements. In this study, two auxetic structures named re-entrant and arrowhead were selected along with the conventional honeycomb structure to investigate the effect of the negative Poisson's ratio on their mechanical behavior. These structures were produced utilizing a fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer. Energy absorption was investigated numerically and experimentally. In order to increase the accuracy of the numerical study, ductile damage for the material was considered. The results showed that the ultimate forces of the re-entrant and arrowhead structures were increased by 125 % and 164 %, respectively, compared to the honeycomb structure. Furthermore, the amount of energy absorption of the re-entrant and arrowhead compared to the honeycomb structure increased by 47.4 % and 176.8 %, respectively. The rate of specific energy absorption in the two mentioned auxetic structures compared to the non-auxetic structure improved by 20.9 % and 53.5 %, respectively.

Influence of materials and nozzle geometry on spray and placement behavior of wet-mix shotcrete

Shotcrete finds extensive applications in civil engineering, from repair and rehabilitation to new constructions. Nevertheless, shotcrete construction frequently suffers from placement issues, such as rebound and overshooting. These challenges can result in reduced operational efficiency, increased material wastage, diminished construction quality, and potential workplace hazards. It is worth noting that these placement issues are intrinsically linked to the spray characteristics of shotcrete. These characteristics are contingent upon various factors, including the material's flowability and viscosity, as well as the nozzle geometry. This research experimentally characterized the spray behavior of wet-mix shotcrete. High-speed cameras and image analysis techniques were utilized to capture and characterize wet-mix shotcrete on a full-scale spraying setup. The study experimentally determined the key placement performance parameters such as placement, rebound, and final build-up thickness and correlates the placement performance of shotcrete with the spray characteristics. The findings reveal that wider spray opening angles, smaller droplet sizes, and higher velocities contribute to improved material deposition, reduced rebound, and increased build-up thickness. The study also assesses the impact of nozzle geometry and rheology of the shotcrete mixture. Increased flowability led to slightly better spray behavior and placement. Higher material viscosity produced a more consistent spray which enhanced shotcrete performance. Multi-air jet guns, where compressed air directly contacts droplets, can enhance shotcrete spray efficiency.

Optimization of physical and strength performance of cellulose-based fiber additives stabilized expansive soil

Expansive soils are known as geotechnically problematic soils and represent a significant challenge for both civil engineering and geotechnical applications. The primary issue with expansive soils is their susceptibility to moisture-induced volume changes, resulting in both shrinkage and swelling behaviors. This study presents a comprehensive investigation into optimizing the physical and strength properties of expansive soil through the use of cellulose-based fiber additives, namely bamboo fiber (BF), rice husk fiber (RHF), and wheat straw fiber (WSF). Various fiber dosages (5 %, 10 %, and 15 %) and sizes (75 µm, 150 µm, and 300 µm) were employed in combinations to identify the optimal conditions and analyze the soil-fiber reinforcement mechanisms. The experimental design was leveraged by the Taguchi method to optimize conditions, focusing on key response factors such as the Atterberg limit test (PI, LL), free swell ratio (FSR), linear shrinkage (LS), and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and statistical analysis for results were validated by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Additionally, cellulose content and water absorption capacity were assessed to confirm the suitability of cellulose-based fibers as soil stabilizers. Hence, the results demonstrate a substantial enhancement in both the physical and mechanical properties of the stabilized soil with the incorporation of cellulose-based fiber additives. Specifically, the Plastic Index (PI) improved by 85 % when using RHF fibers at a dosage and size of 15 % and 300 µm, respectively. The Free Swell Ratio (FSR) witnessed improvement with WSF fibers at a dosage of 15 % and a size of 150 µm. Linear shrinkage exhibited remarkable improvement, exceeding 95 %, with a combination of 15 % and 75 µm fibers. Furthermore, the Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) values were improved by more than 100 % when using 15 % BF fibers with a size of 300 µm. Therefore, the findings of the study highlight that cellulose-based additives as highly effective and sustainable alternatives for soil stabilization, surpassing the engineering performance of traditional soil stabilizers

A review on PZT in civil engineering

Civil engineering is not just about construction of buildings, towers, bridges etc. but also of their caring and maintenances. For this purpose all the constructed structures have to be monitored for their structural health in terms of damage detection, severity of damage etc., collectively called structural health monitoring (SHM) of structures in civil engineering. For SHM, electromagnetic impedance (EMI) technique is one of the best methods of NDTs being used in the field of civil engineering. EMI uses lead zirconate titnate (PZT) as its piezoelectric component for the purpose of measurement. PZT based devices are widely used in civil engineering. There is a huge demand for health monitoring now a days and to full fill those demands of health monitoring, PZT is one among the most reliable and cost efficient material. Piezoelectric sensor can be used to measure changes in acceleration, strain, pressure and to ensure the better safety measures. These PZT based sensors can be used for predicting the natural disasters like earthquake that helps to save the thousands of lives and can decrease property lose. The piezoelectric sensors can be used to monitor the civil structure which helps an engineer to analyses the characteristics of that structure. It is also used for collecting the data of force that is being exerted on the ground by the building, temperatures and pressure differences in environment etc. Damage detection is a technique that is used to monitor the civil structure, this can improve safety and ensure durability, and for concrete structures, damage detection plays an important role. For the purpose of SHM and damage detection PZT based sensors can be used. For civil engineering applications, PZT-cement based composites have been developed. The concrete and host structure such PZT-cement based composites shows better matching when compared to normal or other piezoelectric ceramics. In this review work we have discussed about SHM/Damage detection, Vibrational control, PZT embedded cement composites and PZT embedded in concrete.

An overview on Finite Different Method (FDM) in multilayer thermal diffusion problem

Numerous mathematical models have been developed for thermal diffusion through single-layer materials, while further developments are needed for multi-layer materials. Diffusion processes through a multilayer material are of interest in industrial, applied thermodynamics, physics, electrical and civil engineering applications. The proposed scheme is easily applicable in various fields, demonstrating that Finite Different Methods (FDMs) are flexible, simple to implement and help to represent multilayer materials even without associating them with other numerical methods. The numerical method studied is a FDM in a civil engineering application. Through the study of a multilayer wall, its criticalities are highlighted, and a possible implementation is proposed.

Prediction of the Dynamic Properties of Concrete Using Artificial Neural Networks

This study explores how dynamic characteristics of concrete, such as dynamic shear modulus, dynamic modulus of elasticity, and dynamic Poisson's ratio, affect stability and performance in civil engineering applications. Traditional testing procedures, which include the time-consuming and costly process of mixing and casting specimens, are both time-consuming and costly. The primary objective of this research is to improve efficiency by using Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and regression analysis to predict the dynamic properties of concrete, providing a machine-learning-based alternative to traditional experimental methodologies. A set of 72 concrete specimens was methodically built and evaluated, with compressive strengths of 50 MPa, aspect ratios ranging from 1 to 2.5, and an average density of 2400 kg/m3. An input dataset and ANN targets were built using these samples. The ANN model, which used cutting-edge deep learning techniques, went through extensive training, validation, and testing, as well as statistical regression analysis. A comparison shows that the predicted dynamic modulus of elasticity and shear modulus using both ANN and regression approaches nearly match the experimental values, with a maximum error of 5%. Despite good forecasts for the dynamic Poisson's ratio, errors of up to 20% were detected on occasion, which were attributed to sample shape variations. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-01-016 Full Text: PDF

Use of geosynthetics and reduction of environmental impacts in the construction of a new parking apron at Ostend airport in Belgium

The theme of microplastics (MP) emissions is one of the focuses of possible environmental concerns when using geosynthetic products in the civil engineering applications. For the construction of a new aircraft parking apron at the Ostend airport in Belgium, a relevant amount of gravel has been substituted with an appropriate woven geotextile for stabilizing the ground. The initial consideration for this decision was essentially due to the important economic and ecological advantages in terms of material savings, time needed for their installation and the overall construction costs. This paper reports the successive analyses showing a very relevant saving in CO2 emissions (more than 77%), which would justify by itself the solution with geosynthetics, if compared with the use of gravel. The specificity and precision of the data available allowed the calculation of a dramatic saving (more than 97%) also in terms of MP emissions, due to the spare of trucks for the transport of materials, preventing also the MP formation connected to the truck’s tires wearing.