Geosynthetics And Geosystems In Hydraulic And Coastal Engineering

A review of the existing applications of geosynthetics and geosystems in hydraulic and coastal engineering, with an overview on material specifications, structural components, relevant tools during conceptual and detail design, possible applications, and execution aspects. A more detailed description is given of new or lesser-known systems and applications. Additional basic information on design methodology and geosynthetics is included to provide a basic framework of information for design purposes.

This collection of conference papers on geosynthetics covers such topics as: reinforced steep slopes; reinforced embankments with and without supporting elements; landfill liners and covers; bank protection; and geosystems in hydraulic and coastal engineering.

Coast lines have been and still are the central lines of civilization around the world with still increasing pressure from both sides – the hinterland and the sea – with all its foreseeable and unforeseeable impacts by means of nature or mankind. While the response of nature to such impacts is flexible in the way that all morphological changes with all the consequences are tolerated as part of the system, humanity cannot tolerate short-term or long-term changes without being threatened in its physical and economical existence. The objectives of this Advanced Research Workshop (ARW) on Environmentally Friendly Coastal Structures were: - to contribute to the critical assessment of existing knowledge in the field of coastal and environmental protection; - to identify directions for future research in that area; - to promote close working relationships between scientists from different countries and with different professional experience. The latest trends in research on coastal and environmental protection were summarized and developed during the meeting. Seventeen papers are presented in this book, attempting to cover all related aspects as completely as possible – coast, engineering structures, water, sediments, ecosystems in their complicated interaction.

Successful coastal and ocean engineering projects rely on practical experience with technical tools and knowledge available to the engineer. Often, problems arise from projects that are too complex for theoretical description, which require that engineers exercise sound judgment in addition to reliance on past practical experience. This book focuses on the latest technology applied in design and construction, effective engineering methodology, unique projects and problems, design and construction challenges, and other lessons learned. In addition, unique practices in planning, design, construction, maintenance, and performance of coastal and ocean projects will be explored.

Geotextile encapsulated sand elements are three-dimensional systems manufactured from textile materials, non-woven materials or combinations of textile and non-woven materials that are filled with sand on-site. These systems are relatively new and the number of applications is growing in river and coastal engineering. Quite often Geosystems are mentioned as a possible solution, but planners, designers and contractors feel rather hesitant about the application of geotextile encapsulated sand elements due to a lack of experience and adequate design rules. The use of geosystems has the advantage that local material can be applied and that no (expensive) quarry stone needs to be extracted and transported from the mountains to the site. Compared to traditional construction methods (with quarry stone) the application of geotextile sand filled elements may add considerable operational advantages to the execution of marine works and may offer attractive financial opportunities. In the application of geotextile encapsulated sand elements however, proper attention should be paid to the laying down of different responsibilities of the parties in the contract. In Geosystems. Design Rules and Applications four types of geotextile sand elements are distinguished, each with specific properties: geo-bags, geo-mattresses, geotextile tubes and geotextile containers. The focus is on the use of geosystems filled with sand as a construction in river and coastal engineering. Geosystems filled with sludge are not covered. The chapters “Introduction” and “General design aspects” are followed by four chapters of the same structure dealing with the various systems. Each of these four chapters starts with a general description and applications and ends with a calculation example. Design aspects are dealt with in the remaining paragraphs. Geosystems. Design Rules and Applications is based on research commissioned by the Dutch Rijkswaterstaat and Delft Cluster. The realisation of the Dutch version was coordinated by a CUR-committee. The English version is a translation of the Dutch version (CUR-publication 217). However, new developments have been added and the text was checked once again and improved. Geosystems. Design Rules and Applications is an essential reference for professionals and academics interested in River and Coastal Engineering, but aims also at those interested in Geotechnical Engineering.

The handbook contains a comprehensive compilation of topics that are at the forefront of many of the technical advances in ocean waves, coastal, and ocean engineering. More than 110 internationally recognized authorities in the field of coastal and ocean engineering have contributed articles in their areas of expertise to this handbook. These international luminaries are from highly respected universities and renowned research and consulting organizations around the world.

"This report is intended to give public and port authorities, designers and contractors insight in the applications and the limitations of geosynthetics in waterfront structures. It is not a design book, but it should allow the users to quickly evaluate the possible use of a geotextile and to decide if a more detailed design is useful."--Introduction

This comprehensive compendium highlights the practical side in the design of the coastal rubble mound structures. All basic rubble mound structural elements with various special features or arrangements are discussed and presented with guidelines to the best practices.A unique feature of this book offers insight into practical constraints and problems. A variety of practical designs and construction examples are elucidated to most common issues faced in the design with extensive discussions on what influences the selection of the proper solution. It is an essential aid to take the design a step further, from basic to a professional level.This useful reference benefits coastal engineers in general, design consultants, construction engineers or anyone carrying out supervision and inspection work.Related Link(s)