Geosynthetic Reinforcement for Soft Foundations: US Perspectives

Geosynthetics have been successfully used as reinforcements for embankments and shallow foundation on soft soils. Their applications include the use of geosynthetics for increasing stability of embankments, increasing bearing capacity of footing on soft foundations, creating construction platforms, and bridging over sinkholes. In recent years, geosynthetics mats have also been used in combination with pile or column systems to support embankments over soft foundations. This paper identifies current practices in the above applications including the most prevalent approaches in the US and other countries and presents recent advances reported in literature. Gaps in our current knowledge are identified and possible future directions for research and development are proposed.