Segmental Concrete Block Units and Pullout
TRI’s geosynthetic-interaction laboratory experienced an exceptional year in 2018. The potential of our large-scale, high-capacity load frame capable of applying normal and shear forces of up to 440 kN (100,000 lbf) aided us in the evaluation of mechanical and friction connections of geosynthetics to large block systems. Operating in parallel, our 130 kN (30,000 lbf) load frame aided in the evaluation of smaller block systems as well as the evaluation of the pullout resistance of geosynthetics and metallic strips amongst other embedded materials. TRI’s 6 sustained load connection creep frames continue to serve the industry in the evaluation of the long-term behavior of the interface of geosynthetic reinforcements and CMU blocks.
Interface Friction
TRI realized the product of substantial 2016/2017 investments in the infrastructure and bandwidth of our geosynthetic interface friction laboratory over the course of 2018. With a total of 26 interface shear strength boxes—including five high-load hydraulic load frames and five low-load shear boxes—our bandwidth has allowed us to deliver reduced turnaround times. The high-load frames utilize hydraulics and enable our laboratory to meet the increasing demands for testing under higher normal stresses. The low-load friction test frames are designed to negate
the bias associated with test system friction and the need for a bearing correction. TRI has also further expanded our ability to ramp and step load specimens through automated equipment controlling supply pressures to our air-bladder and hydraulic loading systems.
Geotechnical
TRI’s AASHTO-accredited geotechnical laboratory continues to serve our clients as an extension of their laboratory services. TRI’s rapid turn time for advanced testing is supported by over 55 flexible wall permeability, 25 triaxial, 9 direct shear, 20 incremental consolidation, three CRS, and DSS capabilities. In addition to our traditional geotechnical testing capabilities, TRI supports our client’s via our rock mechanics and wet chemistry laboratories.
Geosynthetic Clay Liners
In response to regulatory-driven and industry-specific demands, TRI has increased our capacity to perform hydraulic conductivity testing with potentially incompatible aqueous solutions. In addition to 0.1 M calcium chloride studies, synthetic leachates and site-specific leachate testing lasting more than 30 days or two pore volumes has increased in frequency. TRI is actively participating in commercial testing of polymer-enhanced (i.e. modified, amended, etc.) GCLs and ongoing ASTM International D35.04 discussions regarding these unique products, where manufacturing innovation has outpaced standardization of associated measurements.
