Experimental and numerical analyses on the permeability of reinforced clay barriers

ABSTRACT . In this paper a particular aspect of soil-geosynthetic interaction is examined, as far as the hydraulic behaviour of soil and inclusions as a whole system is concerned. The presence of geogrid layers within a vertically compacted-clay barrier and its possible influence on the hydraulic conductivity has been studied. The results of experimental tests and numerical analyses performed on soil specimens of different size, grading and nature, compacted at different energies and moisture contents, with different types of geogrids installed within as reinforcement, are reported. “Equivalent” hydraulic conductivity values have been evaluated, with and without inclusions; comparisons between the obtained results lead to useful considerations about applicability and design of this solution in works devoted to the prevention from geoenvironmental hazards. An example related to this last aspect is also briefly suggested.