Physical Modeling of Geosynthetics Using Geotechnical Centrifuges

A wide range of problems involving geosynthetics have been and are being studied using geotechnical centrifuges. In the late 1970’s when geotechnical centrifuge testing began to gain popularity in the U.S., there was some doubt as to the usefulness of centrifuge modeling for geosynthetics applications. However as the field matured and experience was gained, it became apparent that the use of centrifuge modeling has certain distinct advantages in the area of geosynthetics, and thus geosynthetic centrifuge modeling is a very active area. A brief history of centrifuge modeling in the U.S. is presented, plus three projects utilizing centrifuge modeling involving geosynthetics applications: a slope stabilization scheme, dynamic interface experiments, and the use of geosynthetics to protect underground structures from explosive effects. Emphasis is on the experimental design and the scaling relations, to illustrate that even where all parameters are not scaled correctly, the modeling is correct and the results are valid. Detailed results can be found elsewhere and are referenced. Some advantages and limitations of centrifuge modeling are also discussed.