International award for study of piled embankment
Published: 25 September 2014
Realistic results with new design model
The research at Deltares optimises the design rules for geosynthetic reinforcement in piled embankments. A piled embankment consists of a foundation of piles supporting a reinforced embankment. Suzanne will complete her PhD on this subject next year. Her PhD research has produced a new design model that predicts the behaviour of piled embankments with geosynthetic reinforcement better than the current models. Designers can use the model to produce economic and safe designs for piled embankments. Management agencies will be able to plan maintenance budgets better and manage road quality better.
The new design model will be included in the new CUR design guideline for piled embankments, which will be published in 2015. There is also considerable global interest in the model from countries including America, Asia, Brazil and China.
![2968[1]](https://www.deltares.nl/app/uploads/2014/09/29681.jpg)
The load distribution on the basal reinforcement was measured and explained, resulting in a new analytical model
Suitable for soft ground in urban areas
Piled embankments are an excellent system for supporting roads and railways on soft ground in urban areas, for example where pre-loading is not feasible because of time restrictions or because there are pipes, buildings or roads in the immediate vicinity. Lateral deformations are minimal when a piled embankment is used. The system does not require any maintenance and construction is quick. And once construction has been completed, there is virtually no residual settlement, if any.