Slope stabilisation using EPS block geofoam with internal drainage system

Abstract

Lightweight expanded polystyrene (EPS) geofoam (geofoam block) is used in slope remediation works as a soil substitute fill to reduce driving forces that can lead to global instability. On the other hand, the presence of seepage flow requires special attention because geofoam block slope systems are vulnerable to seepage-induced lateral forces. In this study, the effect of an internal drainage system on the alleviation of piezometric pressures within the back-slope of a geofoam block slope system was investigated. For this purpose, laboratory experiments were conducted using a small-scale lysimeter with dimensions of 60 cm height, 20 cm width, and 200 cm length. The slope was compacted with sand to obtain an overall dry unit weight of 14 kN/m3. The constant piezometric head boundary conditions of 25, 38 and 50 cm generated the necessary hydraulic energy gradient for the seepage flow directed from the water reservoir of the lysimeter to the 45° angle slope face. The slopes were remediated by using geofoam blocks assembled in an embankment-type configuration at the toe of the slope. The internal drainage system consisted of grooved geofoam blocks that formed the 10, 15 and 22.5 cm high embankments. Deep-seated failures of the non-remediated slope were prevented except for the experiments with 10 and 15 cm high embankments under 50 cm pressure head boundary conditions. In general, the internal drainage system alleviated the piezometric pressure conditions within the back-slope by lowering the phreatic surface using the active drainage channels observed during laboratory experiments. These drainage channels provided a convenient passageway for seepage flow. The coupled numerical variably saturated flow modelling and slope stability modelling predicted the factor of safety for global stability which confirmed the observed physical conditions in the laboratory. The use of the internal drainage system increased the factor of safety of the geofoam block slope system under seepage conditions.