Slope Reinforcement Technology Stabilizes Ramp Slopes

摘要

When constructed, the overpass ramp embankments of Caltrans Route 20/Highway 5, in Calif., were filled with clayey, highly expansive soils obtained from nearby sources. After about 10 years, the stability of the embankment slopes began to deteriorate as evidenced by slope creep, shallow slides, cracking pavement parallel to the edge and lateral spreading. Additionally, guard rail posts were undermined by shallow slides. To stabilize the slopes, Caltrans considered several methods: lime treatment of the slope, slope inclination reduction using imported fill, non-expansive fill slope overlay, and Geopier SRT™ stabilization. Final project design selected the SRT method to stabilize 1.5 miles of ramp slopes as a cost-saving measure, with minimal earthwork operations and shorter construction time.