Flexible Approach for Performance-based Design of Stable Multi-layer Cover Systems

摘要

An approach that provides the requiredrnshear strengths for a stable cover system whilernaccommodating the changes that occur during design andrnconstruction of the cover provides the Engineer with arnuseful tool when designing multi-layer cover systems forrnnuclear and hazardous waste containment. This flexiblernapproach uses an Acceptable Zone (AZ) Plot that relatesrnthe stress-dependent and stress-independent componentsrnof shear strength required to achieve a given Factor ofrnSafety. The AZ Plot is then used to develop arnperformance-based technical specification to facilitate thernidentification and selection of an appropriaterncombination of soil, engineered granular or geosyntheticrndrainage materials, and/or geosynthetic barrier materialsrnfor cover construction that will ensure long-term coverrnstability and integrity. This paper presents a designrnapproach that incorporates AZ Plots and a performance–rnbased specification to provide a stable cover system,rnaddress uncertainty, and maximize design flexibility.