Case Study: ACCESS RAMP
Problem: Geofoam blocks are being used more in constructing highways, ramps, retaining walls, bridges,
embankments, utilities containment, parking lots, airfield pavement and more. Geofoam blocks offer a lightweight choice for soil and can provide cost savings by minimizing heavy earthmoving equipment and accelerate construction schedules. The geofoam, however, is susceptible to damage if exposed to liquid hydrocarbons like gasoline, diesel fuel, JP-4/8, kerosene, etc. so a protective liner such as Seaman Corporation XR5 must be used.
Solution: A reliable and protective liner is recommended such as Seamans Corporation XR5 geomembranes. Woven synthetic fabrics of Dupont Dacron Polyester are coated with complex
compounds that protect against these degradable liquids.
Construction Details: The work described on this project is a geofoam installation used as fill material for a detention vault at highway interchange location. Once the wall is poured and rebar is in place, the geofoam blocks will be assembled per manufacture recommendation. Typically, a manufacturer will create a specific set of plans per project with each geofoam block identified for specific placement which minimizes trimming/cutting foam blocks. After site inspection to confirm readiness, tech crew will place protective geomembrane cap over top of geofoam wall and drop down 12″ on each side.
Project: Installation of detention vault
Location: Redmond, WA
Engineer: WSDOT
Contractor: Granite Construction
Liner Installer: Northwest Linings & Geotextile Products Inc.
Materials: Seamans Corporation XR5 geomembrane liner
8130 or 9832G.