Geosynthetics in roads and pavements

PREFACE 

 

Dealing with Difficult Sites 

In the past, when dealing with difficult sites for construction purposes, the conventional practice was 

limited to either replacing the unsuitable soils, or bypassing them with costly deep foundations.  

Additionally, the age-old problem of land scarcity and the need to rebuild aging infrastructure in urban 

areas, increased realization of seismic hazards, and regulations mandated for various environmental 

problems, have been the impetus for the  the evolution of a number of ground improvement techniques 

during the past 25 years.  Innovative ground modification approaches are routinely used now to solve 

unique soil-related problems, and often are considered to be the most economical means to improve an 

undesirable site condition.   

 

Geosynthetics

 have proven to be among the most versatile and cost-effective ground modification 

materials.  Their use has expanded rapidly into nearly all areas of civil, geotechnical, environmental, 

coastal, and hydraulic engineering. 

 

This handbook introduces geosynthetics from the perspective of practical application. It is intended to 

serve as a general reference in the field for those who are building structures that include geosynthetics.