Soil consolidation and strengthening using electrokinetic geosynthetics - concepts and analysis

Electrically conductive geosynthetics (EKG) combine electrokinetic phenomena with conventional geosynthetic functions. These "active" geosynthetics can be used in a range of applications including, the strengthening of failing embankments and cuttings and as an alternative to conventional soil consolidation using wick drains and surcharge loading. The electrokinetic phenomenon applicable to soil consolidation and strengthening is electroosmosis. In the case of soil consolidation, electrokinetic treatment can offer technical and economic benefits identified as a major reduction in the time required for consolidation to occur and the elimination of the need for surcharge loading. Due to changes in weather patterns a growing number of previously stable structures are in danger of collapse. A particular problem relates to embankments and cuttings associated with rail/road networks. Remedial strengthening of these structures can be accomplished by electrokinetic geosynthetics, which not only affect an increase in shear strength of the parent material, but can also provide reinforcement.