The Highway client stipulated that they required a ‘fast track’ geotechnical solution to help construct an embankment for a new highway between the Hemus University to the town of Hemus, Jablanica. The main challenges of this project were to finish it within a rapid deadline and ensure limited environmental impact due to the construction.

StrataGrid™ was used as the soil system solution for the retaining structures with a low volume of excavation and benefitting economically, thus completing the work within a given timeframe.
 

The Reinforced Soil System was designed to construct a reinforced embankment structure through products of double twisted hexagonal wire mesh with anti-corrosion coating for a life of 120 years.

The strengthening facility consists of two parts. The foundations are filled with gabion modules with a vertical stone face and have a height of 1 m. The second zone is 26.0m high and consists of factory modular systems with a 70° slope angle face, behind which is laid and 30 cm of soil, conducive to vegetation development.

Reinforced Soil Structures using geosynthetic materials are increasingly used globally and in Bulgaria due to their excellent strength, deformation, chemical and biological characteristics, which have a positive environmental impact. Clients have confidence as structures are designed to International Design Standard and are very cost-effective. Therefore, StrataGrid™ was selected as an innovative solution for embankment construction.
 

First 2.5 m high reinforced soil wall, a highway structure in Bulgaria.