Basal reinforcement for embankments on soft tropical soil

This paper explores the basic geosynthetic functions, their required properties and different possible solutions for the basal reinforcement of embankments on soft soil in detail. The measurement data gained by the monitoring programs within pioneering projects refined the knowledge of the geosynthetic reinforced embankments deformation behaviour as well as the strain distribution in the geosynthetic reinforcement. Those findings are summarised in the paper. Finally, this paper focusses on the design and the construction of geosynthetic reinforced road embankments within the 2nd River Niger Bridge construction between the cities Asaba and Onitsha in Nigeria. The subsoil conditions in the estuarine area are characterized by clayey and peaty soft soil layers with high organic and water contents. Moreover, the tropical climate has a great influence on the entire construction process, which will be demonstrated.