Embankments

• 5.1.

  Introduction

• 5.2.

  Geosynthetics as a basal reinforcement in embankments

• 5.3.

  Geosynthetics for drainage in embankments

• 5.4.

  Combined use of geosynthetic reinforcement and vertical drainage

• 5.5.

  Piled embankments

• 5.6.

  Summary of main points

• 5.7.

  Some common questions and their answers

• References

The stabilisation of embankments on soft soils is one of the most traditional applications of geosynthetics in geotechnical engineering. In this chapter, the utilisation of such materials to increase the safety factors of embankments and to accelerate their settlements due to soft soil consolidation is examined. The combination of geosynthetic layers and piles is also addressed for cases where minimum levels of settlement are required. The content of the chapter focuses on the more practical design approaches available in the literature, but comments on the use of more sophisticated design tools are also presented. Relevant theoretical and practical aspects on the use of geosynthetics in embankments on soft soils are also addressed.