Utilizing Geosynthetics for Sustainable Infrastructure

Swathylekshmi.M, Anisha S
Rajadhani Institute of Engineering and Technology, APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University, Kerala

Abstract: This paper provides a thorough overview of geosynthetic in sustainable infrastructure, focusing on
their applications in roads, transportation, railways, and coastal protection. Geosynthetics, including geotextiles,
geogrids, geomembranes, and geocomposites, are explored for their roles in separation, filtration, drainage,
strengthening, protection, and insulation, promoting sustainability in civil engineering projects. Specific
applications in road construction, transportation networks, railway engineering, and coastal protection are
discussed, highlighting their contributions to stability, load distribution, and cost-effective practices. The review
underscores the need for ongoing research and awareness to drive widespread adoption, emphasizing
geosynthetics' potential to shape a more sustainable future in civil engineering.

Keywords: Geosynthetic, Sustainable infrastructure, Dyke stabilization, Circular economy

Introduction

The integration of geosynthetics into infrastructure projects is increasingly recognized as a vital component of
sustainable development. Geosynthetics, engineered materials with diverseapplications in civil engineering, offer
innovative solutions that enhance the durability, longevity, and environmental performance of infrastructure
systems. This paper explores the multifaceted role ofgeosynthetics in promoting sustainability within infrastructure
development. By leveraging the unique properties of geosynthetics, such as strength, flexibility, and permeability,
infrastructure projects can achieve significant advancements in various aspects of sustainability. These include
minimizing environmental impacts, optimizing resourceutilization, and enhancing resilience to natural hazards.
Geosynthetics contribute to the creation of infrastructure that is not only efficient and cost- effective but also
environmentally responsible and resilient to future challenges. This paper examines the application of
geosynthetics across different sectors of infrastructure, ranging from transportation and watermanagement to waste
containment and coastal protection. Through case studies and empirical evidence, it demonstrates how
geosynthetics have been successfully employed to address specific challenges while aligning with overarching
sustainability goals. Furthermore, this paper discusses the technical considerations, design methodologies, and best
practices associated with the utilization of geosynthetics in infrastructure projects. It highlightsthe importance of
interdisciplinary collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge dissemination in ensuring the effective
implementation of geosynthetic solutions. Ultimately, the integration of geosynthetics into infrastructure design
and construction represents a promising avenue for advancing sustainabledevelopment objectives. By embracing
innovative technologies and adopting a holistic approach to infrastructure planning, stakeholders can build
resilient, resource-efficient, and environmentally friendly infrastructure systems that meet the needs of present and
future generations.

1. Utilizing geosynthetics in transport infrastructure

Constructing and maintaining transportation infrastructure requires extensive resources, including materials and
natural resources, resulting in high energy and fuel consumption. Embracing sustainability principles is crucial to
reduce energy usage, carbon emissions, and promote material reuse/recycling. This paper delves into sustainable
earthwork construction, aiming to minimize energy consumption and CO2 emissions while improving in-situ ground
for foundation use without excessive reliance on primary aggregate. It discusses the use of recycled materials like
steel slag and tire bales, alongside a conceptual framework for assessing their suitability in transportation
infrastructure. Canals and terminals, heavily reliant on material resources, are currently undergoing a market shift
towards more sustainable practices in planning, design, construction, maintenance, and operation. While these
infrastructures impact the earth’s resources and environment, they also reshape long-established land use patterns
and societal values. Therefore, geotechnical aspects and related activities are vital from the early stages of
infrastructure projects to achieve overall sustainable development by meeting basic human needs, efficiently using
resources, and preserving/restoring surrounding ecosystems. Geotechnical engineers play a pivotal role in promoting
sustainability by optimizing resource usage, reducing processes that negatively impact sustainability, and addressing
areas such as energy efficiency, material reuse/recycling, carbon footprint reduction, and pollution control. This paper
offers a concise overview of geotechnical examples in these areas, including sustainable ground improvement
methods, earthworks designed to minimize energy consumption and CO2 production, the use of recycled materials,
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foundation reuse, and rehabilitation and maintenance strategies that reduce reliance on primary natural geomaterials.

1.1 Sustainable earthworks

Sustainable earthworks aim to optimize the use of natural geomaterials found on construction sites to reduce waste
and preserve natural resources like quarried materials. Ensuring the suitability of these materials during the planning
and execution phases is essential for achieving sustainable construction, as overlooking this aspect can result in
costly setbacks. Initial assessments compare excavated materials against set specifications, with mechanical and
chemical treatments considered to make materials suitable if they fall short of requirements. Lime, for instance, is
widely used to enhance the properties of wet or soft fine soils, improving workability and aiding compaction during
earthworks. The long-term effects of lime-treated soils, such as enhanced strength and stiffness due to ongoing
pozzolanic reactions, are often disregarded during the design phase. It is advisable to conduct thorough laboratory
testing and performance-based evaluations to select suitable stabilization methods and additives that minimize
environmental impact. Byproducts such as ashes, quarry waste fines, and slags are also recommended for their
pozzolanic properties, which contribute to strength and stiffness improvements in treated soils. An example of
sustainable soil reuse is evident in the Integrated Pipeline project, where in-situ excavated soil undergoes chemical
treatment for reuse as backfill, bedding, and zone materials, offering potential cost savings and environmental
benefits compared to importing aggregate and select fill materials. Research endeavors focusing on sustainable
ground improvement solutions for infrastructure construction projects are vital for advancing sustainability.
Although there may be initial expenses associated with lime or cement treatment, the long-term durability benefits
can be demonstrated through comprehensive life cycle and risk analyses.

1.2 Carbon dioxide emission comparison

Utilizing geosynthetics leads to significant advancements in CO2 reduction compared to almost all alternative
materials employed in civil engineering. In the specific instance of dykes, an example entails contrasting an
external seal for a river dyke on the Kinzig in southwest Germany [50].The comparison differentiates between the
use of a Geosynthetic Clay Liner (GCL) and a compacted clay liner (CCL) with an average thickness of 0.625.
m. The outcome favors the GCL, although the disparity in cumulative energy demand (CED) between the two
sealing systems is relatively insignificant (Rimoldi et al., 2021).

The assumed distance of 35 km (one-way) for the transportation of the mineral barrier material significantly
impacts the CED for the required 45,000 tons of sealing material (see Figure 1.1 a). For the GCL, the main
contributor to CED is the polypropylene (PP), accounting for approximately 53% of the total, given a surface
weight of 0.69 kg/m2 PP (including 6.2% overlapping). The crucialfactor in comparing the two sealing systems is
the transportation distance for the mineral sealing material. If the extraction site is on-site or close to the
installation site, the CCL, mainly due to its lack of energy content (feedstock), offers minimal room for
improvement. In the case of the GCL, the primary portion of the CED is attributed to the energy content
(feedstock) of the polypropylene (approximately 53%). The transport distance for Geosynthetic Clay Liners
(GCLs) from the manufacturing facility in Espelkamp to Offenburg (580 km) has a relatively minor impact on the
Cumulative Energy Demand (CED) compared to thepolypropylene (PP) granulate material (approximately 8.5%).
The soil utilized for weather protection, applied at a thickness of 0.8 m for both barrier materials, equates to 97
MJ/m2, considering an average transportation distance of 20 km for both cases analyzed. This aspect holds
particular significance when assessing these systems against alternative solutions (Fig 1.1 b). The distribution of
environmentally relevant CO2 closely corresponds to the CED, with the GCL exhibiting a CO2 emission of 4.0
kg/m2, the Compacted Clay Liner (CCL) recording 9.9 kg/m2, and the covering soil contributing 7.9 kg/m2 to the
CO2 balance sheet.

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 Fig. 1.1 Emission Charts
Source : (Rimoldi et al.,
2021)

1.3 The Minimum Energy Performance Concept

Considering the previously mentioned reduction in soil material volume, decreased reliance on select soil material,
enhanced long-term performance, increased durability, prolonged lifespan, and the mitigation of greenhouse gas
emissions, Geosynthetics can be regarded as among the most effective methods for designing in alignment with the
minimum energy performance approach. This often results in achieving the cost-optimal energy efficiency level for
the project (Rimoldi et al., 2021).

1.4 Circular Economy

Geosynthetic products, engineered to reinforce road asphalt and prolong road durability, can now be manufactured
using 100% recycled plastic sourced from bottles. These geosynthetic items arerecyclable at the end of their
operational life, utilizing milling and re-manufacturing processes. Asthe quality of recycled feed streams improves,
thereis an opportunity to broaden their utilization, contributing to the reduction of millions of plastic bottles ending
up in landfills or water bodies (Touze-Foltz, 2022). The geosynthetics industry is actively involved in responsibly
utilizing valuable materials that might otherwise be discarded thoughtlessly. Achieving responsible reuse and
recycling necessitates thorough evaluation, design considerations, and comprehensive testing to harness the benefits
of circular practices without causing harm. Geosynthetics holds the potential to serve as a sustainable alternative to
concrete in various applications, such as canal lining and aggregates in road construction. This opens avenues for
substantial cost savings and environmental advantages.

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2. Environmental Benefits of Geosynthetics

Geosynthetics have been developed to have a long lifespan, and many of them come with certificates ofconformance
that indicate an expected lifespan of over 100 years. It is essential that the design life of geosynthetics matches or
surpasses the lifespan of the structures they are integrated into. The design life of geosynthetics in
geoenvironmentalapplications is influenced by various factors, as mentioned earlier. By taking these factors into
account and adhering to internationally recognized standards for specification, design, and installation, the
reliability of geosynthetics can extend well beyond the anticipated design life of the structures. A study cited as
[64] examined data from durabilitytesting of HDPE geomembrane samples over a period of 17 years (Rimoldi et
al., 2021).

Geomembranes used in applications such as river dykes, which may experience temperatures below the long-term
average ambient temperatures, could potentially exceed the 100-year threshold specified in CE marking for a site
with an annual average earthtemperature of 15 degrees Celsius. Thorough qualitycontrol throughout the production
and installation processes, supported by established procedures, is a crucial factor. The absence of geosynthetics in
construction practices has had a significant impact on global warming and associated geoenvironmental issues,
including soil erosion, instability of hills, riverbanks, coastal slopes, ice and glacier melting, floods, and sea-level
rise worldwide [65]. The carbon emissions associated with construction usinggeosynthetics have shown relatively
limited impact in comparison. Therefore, in addition to offering solutions to mitigate the effects of floods,
geosynthetics also contribute to a positive cycle by reducing carbon emissions during the construction of these
measures. The use of geosynthetics improves the durability and resilience of infrastructure, resulting in lower long-
term carbon emissions due to extended functionality. Lastly, education, particularly through the IGS's Educate the
Educators program [66], plays a crucial role in exposing undergraduate civil engineering students to geosynthetics.
By providing Geotechnical Engineering professors with the necessary content and pedagogical tools, this program
ensures that the knowledge and expertise accumulated over the years in designing and constructing with
geosynthetics are fully utilized. This approach aims to maximize the duration of work while minimizing
environmental impact.

2.1 Total CO2 Footprint of Geosynthetic Solution-Case Study

CO2 Foot printing Study on Geosynthetic and ClaySolutions (Raja, 2016)

• Comparative CO2 footprints were provided for both geosynthetic and non-geosynthetic solutions.
• A total CO2 footprint was calculated for both solutions, demonstrating differences in total and comparative
emissions.
• The LCA scope of cradle to end-of-construction was used to maintain consistency with the case studyand conform
to PAS2050 standards.
• The CO2 foot printing methodology was based on BSI (2011b) and included scoping, data collection, foot
printing calculations, and interpretation.
• A process map was developed to indicate processesthat need to be included in the carbon footprint and those that
could be excluded in accordance with PAS2050.
• First-hand EC values for clay and geotextile were calculated, and a flow chart of processes considered within a
cradle to gate analysis was provided (Raja, 2016).

Calculation of CO2 Emissions from Three LifeCycle Stages

• Calculations were conducted for Embodied Carbon, Transport, and Construction stages within the system
boundary.
• Emissions from utilities and mobilization were calculated but excluded from the overall carbon footprint.
• The EC of the materials used was quantified, accounting for all CO2 emissions from production to cradle to
gate.
• EC values were sourced from the ICE database, with the exception of Clay, which had a specific EC value
calculated in Case Study.
• The EC value for each material was multiplied withthe quantity required to provide the CO2 emissions produced.
• The EC of the materials included all emissions that satisfy the system boundary of cradle to gate.
• Transport emissions of geosynthetics and claymaterials were calculated as part of the comparativecase study.
• The same method was used to calculate transport CO2 emissions from the sand used in both the regulatory and
restoration layers

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 Table 2.1 Emission Values
Source : (Raja, 2016)

TOTAL CO2 EMISSIONS

Solution Transport Embodied Construction Total(kgCO2e/m2)

CLAY 0.91 15.18 1.78 17.87
GEOSYNTHETIC 0.48 17.63 0.54 18.65

TOTAL FOR THE PROJECT (tCO2e)

CLAY 8.72 145.30 17.02 171.04

GEOSYNTHETIC 4.57 168.76 5.18 178.50

Comparison of Case Study and complete CO2 foot printing results

Original Clay
STUDY TOTAL Overall
SOLUTION Difference Placement
TYPE CO2e Difference
(tCO2e) (tCO2e)
Clay 21.39 +3.36
Comparative 10.81 7.45
Geosynthetic 32.20 -
Clay 171.04 -
Complete 7.46 7.46
Geosynthetic 178.50 -

• Clay solution produces 4% lower CO2 emissions than geosynthetic solution, resulting in a difference of just
under 7.5tCO2.
• The EC contributes the most to overall CO2 emissions, with construction and transport phases also
contributing.
• The clay was sourced from a location close to the site, reducing transport-related emissions.
• The study emphasizes the importance of including construction emissions in system boundaries.
• The construction phase in the clay solution produces 17tCO2, equating to almost 10% of overallCO2
emissions.
• The results validate the findings of the case study, indicating that if the placement of the clay was included, the
results would have provided the same overall difference in CO2 emissions.

• The study aimed to provide a total CO2 footprint for both geosynthetic and clay solutions.
• The methodology followed the PAS 2050 guidance, ensuring consistency in EC data and LCAscope.
• The CO2 footprints for both solutions were similar, with the clay solution marginally more sustainable.
• The EC contributes the most to overall CO2 emissions in both solutions.
• Transport and construction-related emissionssignificantly contribute to the overall CO2 footprint.
• Emissions from utilities and mobilizations were excluded from the overall CO2 footprint.
• The results validate the findings of the initial case study, which did not provide a total CO2 footprint.
• The results provide credibility to the framework and methodology used in the comparative case studies.

3. Combined use of Geosynthetics and Recycled Construction and Demolition Waste (RCDW)

3.1 EXPERIMENTAL SETUP

• Santos (2011) describes a combined use of geosynthetics and recycled construction and demolition waste
(RCDW) in building geosyntheticreinforced walls.

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• Two instrumented 3.6 m high geosynthetic reinforced walls were built using RCDW backfill on collapsible
porous foundation soil at the Foundations Experimental Site of the Graduate Program of Geotechnics of the
University of Brasília, Brazil.
• Wall 1 was reinforced with geogrid, while Wall 2 was reinforced with nonwoven geotextile.
• The walls were constructed in a container boundedby lubricated reinforced masonry walls.
• The instrumentation allowed measurements of settlements along the top of the backfill, face horizontal
displacements, vertical and horizontal
total stresses, reinforcement strains, and horizontal displacement of the foundation soil.
• The walls were constructed on a porous collapsiblefoundation known as Brasília porous clay, causing the
foundation soil structure to collapse by increasing itsmoisture content by inundation.

3.2 Recycled Construction and Demolition Wastesin Geosynthetic-Encased Granular Columns

Alkhorshid conducted large-scale tests on geosynthetic-encased columns (GEC) to reduce excessive settlements
and failure of embankments built on soft soils. The study used a large box to investigate the use of three types of
woven geotextileencasements and three types of infill materials, including RCDW. The GEC models were 1000
mm in height and 150 mm in diameter, with sand, calcareous gravel, recycled construction, and RCDW as infill
materials. Bentonite was added to the subgrade soil to increase its plasticity and workability, resulting in a soft
subgrade classified asCH by the Unified Soil Classification System. The properties of the soft soil and filling
materials and geotextile characteristics are presented in Table 3.1 (Palmeira et al., 2021).

Table 3.1 Properties of the Geosynthetic Encasements

Source: (Palmeira et al., 2021)

GEOTEXTILE
PROPERTY
G-1 G-2 G-3
Tensile
strength 30 16 8
(kN/m)
Maximum
tensile 22 16 15
strain (%)
Tensile
stiffness 120 107 53.4
(k/m)

• G-1-encased column showed higher bearing capacity and lower settlements than G-2 and G-3.
• Maximum lateral bulging observed for column encased with extensible geotextile (G-3).
• Load capacities increased significantly with geotextile encasement.
• RCDW-encased columns showed load capacity similar to traditional natural infill materials.
• RCDW potential for stabilizing embankments on soft soils highlighted.

4.Utilizing Geosynthetics in Roads for sustainable practices

Geosynthetic materials, introduced to geotechnical engineering with the development of geotextiles in the 1960s,
have become extensively utilized across various civil engineering disciplines, notably in roadconstruction. Within
road engineering, geosyntheticmaterials play crucial roles in the creation of drainage systems, the separation of
distinct layers, prevention of uneven settlements, waterproofing applications, protection of waterproofing
materials, and the reinforcement of both road infrastructure and superstructure layers. Geotextile materials are
typically used between existing floors and platformsor frost protection layers, and are used to prevent irregular
settlements by distributing static and dynamic effects to the ground in highways (Bayraktar, 2020).

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4.1Phaltan Project- Case Study

This paper provides a concise overview of recent research and experimentation involving high- modulus Novel
Polymeric Alloy (NPA) geocell-reinforced bases. The findings suggest that NPA geocells enhance the strength
and stiffness of flexible pavements, as evidenced by an increase in the modulus of structural layers, reduced
stresses onlower layers, and minimized surface degradation. Field trials confirm that NPA geocells enhance the
modulus of road base layers, even while reducing structural thickness and utilizing on-site or recycledmaterials
for structural infill. This approach enables the construction of sustainable roads with reduced reliance on virgin
resources and a smaller environmental footprint, while simultaneously extending pavement service life and
reducingmaintenance requirements (Kief et al., 2014).

Fig 4.1 NPA Geocell

Source: (Kief et al., 2014)

Cyclical plate load tests were conducted on pavement sections reinforced with Novel Polymeric Alloy (NPA)
geocells and unreinforced sections. This testing took place on a newly constructed access road at the Govind Dairy
Factory in Phaltan, India. The researchers then explored the influencingfactors and validated the results through
laboratory testing in a geotechnical test box. The Modulus Improvement Factor (MIF) for NPA geocell
reinforcement was estimated using pressure- settlement data (Kief et al., 2014).

4.2.1Modulus Improvement Factor (MIF)

Following the formulas from the Indian Road Congress (IRC) for moduli of soil layers based on California Bearing
Ratio (CBR) values, the MIF is determined by the ratio of the E-Value (reinforced layer) to the E-Value
(unreinforced layer).

The average settlements from the plate load test (3.35 mm) in the field under a 10T load on the reinforced
section were used by the investigators. They tested for the corresponding modulus that would yield the above
settlement using the Kenpavepavement analysis program. The analysis employed a load of 100 kN and a plate
contact radius of 150 mm (contact pressure = load/area = 100/area of plate
= 1414 kPa). The modulus of the NPA geocell layer was selected through a trial-and-error process to match the
measured settlement at a load of 100 kN (refer to Table 4.1 below).

The Finite Element Software analysis calculated an MIF value of 2.75 from the NPA geocell field test, and this
was validated by values obtained from laboratory testing: 2.92 for a 150 mm NPA geocell height, 2.84 for 50 mm
and 100 mm NPA geocell height. These results align with the MIF reported byKief and Rajagopal. These tests
affirm the validity and accuracy of the MIF as a tool for pavement design involving NPA geocells.

Table 4.1 Settlement Values

Source: (Kief et al., 2014)

Improvement Average
E-Value
Factor Settlement

1 105628.43 kPa 4.32

2 211256.86 kPa 3.57

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 2.5 290478.18 kPa 3.41

2.75 290478.18 kPa 3.35

3 316885.29 kPa 3.29

4 422513.72 kPa 3.14

5 528142.15 kPa 3.03

5.Utilizing Geosynthetics in Coastal Protection

In coastal dykes, geotextiles play a vital role in filtration, engaging in intricate interaction mechanisms between
soil particles and the fibers ofthe geotextile. Geotextiles exhibit superior uniformity compared to granular filters
and are manufactured under controlled factory conditions, unlike granular filters, which are susceptible to soil
variability and segregation during placement. The continuity of geotextiles during placement and subsequent
deformation relies on their extensibility and strength. They find application around landside gravel drains and
beneath riprap, safeguarding the upper section of the riverside slope (Rimoldi et al., 2021).

For drainage purposes in dyke design, geosynthetics are also employed, including horizontal drains for the
downstream slope, chimney and finger drains, aswell as vertical or sloping drains to complement the barrier lining
system within the dyke body. Additionally, geosynthetics are utilized for internal drainage in homogeneous fill.
The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) identifies various scenarios where granular drainage layers can be
integrated into dykes. In such cases, geosynthetic drainagesystems can be strategically designed to replacegranular
ones.

5.1.1 Geosynthetics for Dyke Stabilization:

• Dykes, constructed using weak soils, often have low 'trafficability' due to their high fines content.
• Heavy vehicles traversing dyke crests can create deep rutting, rendering further vehicle access challenging.
• Ensuring continuous accessibility for emergency vehicle access, repair, or maintenance work necessitates a stable
but lightweight permanent pavement.
• Geosynthetics are employed for stabilization to prevent rutting on dyke crests.
• Biaxial or multiaxial geogrids, along with geocells, are horizontally installed atop dyke structures.
• This stabilizing measure mitigates horizontal and vertical movement of aggregate particles, countering
deformation under vehicle traffic loads.
• The design process factors in axle load, soil bearingcapacity on the upper dyke portion, and aggregate type.
• The resulting aggregate layer thickness and geosynthetic type are outcomes of this design process.
• Often, a geotextile separation layer is included beneath the stabilized layer to enhance system redundancy.
• Stabilizing geosynthetics in dykes can also facilitate the construction of light pavements for bicycles.

5.1.2 Geosynthetics for Surface Erosion Control in Dyke Engineering:

• Surface erosion control is integral to dyke engineering, addressing both riverside and landside slopes.
• Rainfall and dyke overflow are the primary sourcesof erosion.
• Overtopping events can lead to erosion damage ondyke crests and landside slopes, contingent on local boundary
conditions.
• Geosynthetics designed for erosion protection, such as geomats, reinforced geomats, and geoblankets, offer
immediate strength and protection.
• These materials establish a physical barrier that absorbs the impact of water and wind, preventing soil loss and
fostering vegetation growth.
• They promote vegetation growth, enhancing the grass cover's long-term resistance to potential hydraulic loads.
• Vegetative dykes have demonstrated resilienceagainst limited overtopping, with minimal to nodamage.
• Studies indicate that vegetated dykes can withstandlimited overtopping events with minimal or no damage.
• Vegetative cover serves as a protective measure against concentrated erosion initiation, mitigating head cut
development and breach.
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• Vegetative cover is most effective in humid climates with adequate moisture to establish dense, uniform turf
grasses without additional irrigation. Maintaining the cover is crucial to realizing substantial protective benefits.

Fig 5 Utilizing Geosynthetics in Dykes for Sustainable Practices

Source:( Rimoldi et al., 2021).

6.Utilizing Geosynthetics in Railways for Sustainable Practices

The rail industry is actively exploring the use of composite geosynthetics to enhance the performance of rail tracks.
Geocomposites offer reinforcement to the ballast layer whilesimultaneously providing filtration and separation
functions. Combining geotextiles and geogrids is seen as a way to maximize the benefits to railway tracks. Geogrids
offer tensile reinforcement and shear resistance, thereby increasing the effectivebearing capacity of the subgrade
(Fig.5). They also interlock with the ballast, enhancing its resistance to both vertical and lateral movement.
Geotextiles, on the other hand, serve for separation and filtration, preventing contamination of the ballast and
facilitating quick relief of pore water pressures (Palmeira, 2016).

Due to their relatively low cost and proven performance in various railway applications, the authors have
undertaken extensive research to explore the effects of different types of geosynthetics on fresh ballast, recycled
ballast, trackdrainage, and stabilization of railway formations, asdetailed later.

3.3 Case Study- Asian Tsunami

The Asian tsunami that occurred on Boxing Day in 2004 had devastating effects on the coastal regions of several
countries, including Indonesia (Sumatra),Thailand (Phuket), Sri Lanka (Eastern and Southern Provinces), and South
India. The exceptionally high waves and their turbulent nature during both the incoming and receding phases
subjected the coastal sandy soils to extreme drag forces and hydraulic gradients. These factors resulted in
significant soil loss and the piping of fine sands in various areas (Indraratna et al., 2007).

Reconstruction of the rail track is currently underway, involving the compaction of surface soilsusing vibratory
rollers and/or dynamic compaction. In some places, this process is ongoing. To achieve an adequately stiff surface
layer before placing the ballast and sub-ballast, the void ratio needs to be reduced to at least 0.4–0.45. Additionally,
for the operation of trains at normal speeds exceeding 70– 80 km/h, a more resilient track is required. Under these
conditions, the use of geogrids at the bottom ofthe ballast layer is highly desirable due to the in homogeneously
mixed soils along the track, even within short distances. The expectation is that the use of geogrids will reduce
differential settlements of the track and enhance the overall resilient modulus of the layered stratum. This is crucial
given that the surface soil properties of the disturbed ground along the track may remain both variable and
unpredictable even after compaction.

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Conclusion

In summary, geosynthetic materials have become essential components in various infrastructure sectors, including
transportation, railways, roads, and waste containment. Their widespread use in these areas has significantly
improved structural strength, sustainability, and operational efficiency in engineering projects. In transportation
infrastructure, geosynthetics play crucial roles in facilitating drainage, separating layers, preventing settlement, and
reinforcing key components. Their application not only enhances the durability and longevity of these structures
but also offers cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions. Similarly, in waste containment, geosynthetics
fulfill vital functions such as lining, capping, and forming barriers to control contamination. Their deployment in
waste management facilities ensures safe containment and long-term protection of surrounding environments and
communities. Overall, the broad adoption of geosynthetic materials across various infrastructure sectors highlights
their versatility and effectiveness in addressing complex engineering challenges. Continuous research and
development in geosynthetic technologies are essential for further improving performance and expanding their
applications, ultimately advancing the resilience, sustainability, and economic viability of infrastructure systems.

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