Geosynthetics applications for the mitigation of natural disasters and for environmental protection

ABSTRACT: The paper first describes the versatile application of geosynthetics for the mitigation of floods, landslides, rockfalls, debris flows and avalanches. It focuses on dykes or flood protection dams, on geosynthetic-reinforced stabilising fills (up to 130 m height) and barrier dams. Geosynthetic-reinforced floating embankments (up to 70 m height) in creeping slopes and seismic areas show clear advantages over rigid structures (e.g. bridges) not only from a geotechnical point of view but also regarding economy, maintenance and environmental aspects. Environmental protection is predominantly considered by gaining renewable energy from the ground via ‘energy-geosynthetics'. Several other applications are also mentioned. Compaction optimisation and control of geosynthetic–soil structures is recommended by roller-integrated CCC (continuous compaction control), thus improving their behaviour significantly.