Adding Reinforced Earth Structures
Reinforced Earth (RE) is a method of construction used in civil engineering that involves reinforcing a soil mass with metal strips, known as geosynthetics, to create a structural wall system. The technique, which is used to economically construct retaining walls, steep slopes and earth structures in general, is based on the principle that when a soil is reinforced with appropriate materials, its internal structure can be stiffened and its bearing capacity can be increased.
Reinforced Earth uses the vast amount of natural soil already in place instead of needing to be imported, which makes it an economical option for most projects. It also offers excellent drainage, since the natural soil allows for water to flow through it easily. In addition, soil reinforcing helps reduce seismic effects, largely due to its flexibility, as the soil has the ability to move, absorb and dissipate energy from vibrations and seismic waves.
The components of Reinforced Earth systemsinclude, first and foremost, soil, along with metal straps, geotextiles and geomembranes which are all essential elements in the construction process. The soil can be granular or cohesive, depending on the surface of the structure and the application in which the structural system is being used. The straps or strips used are typically made of metal mesh, which is incredibly durable, and will remain so throughout the life of the structure. The geotextiles lay at the base of the system and work to provide erosion control and water management. The geomembranes, which layer near the top of the structure and act as a protective covering, complete the system.
The installation process for Reinforced Earth requires advanced techniques, tools and highly qualified personnel, since the installation must be done properly in order to ensure the overall quality of the structure. The process typically consists of two main phases, which are the foundation installation, and the assembly of the panels. The foundation installation involves compacting the soil layer, setting up the geotextiles, building the base and preparing the foundation top layer. Once this is complete, the panel installation can then begin. This includes positioning the reinforcement strips, stabilizing the panels, installing the geomembranes, filling the cells with soil, and finally, compressing the top layer to make sure everything is secure.
Reinforced Earth is an excellent structural solution for many projects due to its economic, structural and environmental advantages. It is becoming an increasingly popular option for retaining walls, steep slopes, tunnel linings, embankments and more. With the right expertise and equipment, the installation process can be done quickly and efficiently, resulting in a reliable structure that can withstand the test of time.
