Geotextile encased columns (GECs) were developed to provide efficient foundations for embankments on weak subsoils. These columns, characterized by geotextile sleeves filled with noncohesive material, transmit loads through weak subsoil to suitable bearing strata via the columns. HUESKER‘s video on this geosynthetic solution provides graphics, project images, and technical details to teach users how this engineered solution achieves dependable, exceptional results.
The even spacing of the GECs reduces differential and absolute settlements significantly. They also increase structural integrity during construction and in the final state.
System highlights, as discussed in the video, include:
- Reduction of creep settlement by 50 – 75%
- Up to 90% of the consolidation takes place during construction
- Secondary settlements are low and can be mitigated by temporary surcharge
- Able to be used in extremely soft soil (e.g., undrained shear strength < 15 kPa)
- Loadable immediately after installations
Learn more about Ringtrac® Geotextile Encased Columns, the engineering behind them, and related applications.
Additional videocasts from HUESKER focus on landfill sealing, bridging sinkholes, reinforced embankments on vertical piles, and geosynthetic reinforced soil. See them all at the Videocast homepage.
ABOUT RINGTRAC®
The Geotextile Encased Column (GEC) system Ringtrac® was developed, with the assistance of HUESKER, as a foundation solution for earthwork structures built on very weak/weak ground conditions. The key component in the system is the Ringtrac® geotextile reinforcement sleeve. The Ringtrac® sleeve is used to enclose non-cohesive material placed in a uniform arrangement of columns, which transmit the structural loads to the bearing stratum. The pile-like load-carrying system is a quick, cost-effective and very secure method of providing a foundation for embankments on soft and very soft soils. Fortrac® geogrids or Stabilenka® geotextiles may placed over the tops of the columns to assist with stability.
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