68th Canadian Geotechnical Conference and 7th Canadian Permafrost Conference

THERMAL MODELLING OF EROSION PROTECTION WITH GESOYNTHETIC CONTAINERS IN COMBINATION WITH LIGHT CLAY AGGREGATE

Session: Physical and Numerical Modelling in Cold Regions / Modélisation physique et numérique en régions nordiques

Magne Wold, SINTEF Building and Infrastructure (Norway)
Arne Instanes, Instanes Polar As (Norway)
Arnstein Watn, SINTEF Building and infrastructure (Norway)
Katja Werth, Naue GmbH (Germany)
Lars Vollmert, Naue GmbH (Germany)

The main objective of this study has been to investigate the possibility of using special types of Geosynthetics Clay Liners in combination with Geotextile Soil-filled Containers (GSC) to insulate the slope to reduce the thickness of the active layer and freeze-thaw action on the slope. In this manner the thermo-denudation process can be slowed down and the erosion of the slope can be reduced to acceptable levels during a coastal structure or landfall service lifetime.

The numerical model has been extended in order to investigate the possibility of using similar erosion protection techniques in more fine graded soil (silt). The prediction and modelling of coastal erosion in fine-grained, ice-rich continuous permafrost can be more challenging than in coarser soils, due to the presence of ground ice. Under these conditions, the rate and location of erosion can be highly variable from year to year. The results from the analysis must, therefore, be used with care.