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INSTRUCTORS:
Brock Huner
Michael Uduebor
Ashish Bastola
Rupsa Roy
Erol Tutumluer
Course Length: 1 hour
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Geo-Congress 2026.
Modeling Effects of Biopolymer Treatment on the Overtopping Performance of an Earthen Embankment (12 minutes)
This presentation investigates how biopolymer soil treatments influence the overtopping performance of earthen embankments. Overtopping is one of the leading causes of embankment failure, particularly during extreme rainfall or flood events. The study uses numerical modeling to simulate erosion and stability behavior under overtopping conditions. Biopolymers are introduced as a sustainable soil improvement technique to enhance erosion resistance. Results indicate that treated soils exhibit improved cohesion and reduced surface erosion. The modeling framework allows comparison between untreated and treated scenarios under varying hydraulic conditions. These findings highlight the potential of biopolymers to improve resilience in hydraulic earth structures.
Water Repellent Soils in Geoenvironmental Applications (12 minutes)
This presentation explores the properties and applications of water-repellent (hydrophobic) soils in geoenvironmental engineering. These soils resist water infiltration, which can significantly alter flow and transport processes. The study examines how hydrophobicity develops due to organic coatings or chemical treatments. Applications include landfill covers, slope stabilization, and contaminant containment systems. The presentation highlights both advantages and challenges, such as uneven wetting and preferential flow paths. Laboratory and field observations are used to characterize behavior. Understanding these properties is essential for designing effective geoenvironmental systems.
Evaluating chemically stabilized soils using geochemical pore solution modeling (10 minutes)
This presentation evaluates chemically stabilized soils using geochemical pore solution modeling techniques. Traditional soil stabilization methods often rely on empirical observations without fully understanding chemical interactions. The study integrates geochemical modeling to predict reactions between stabilizing agents and soil minerals. Pore solution chemistry plays a critical role in determining long-term performance. The approach allows identification of both beneficial and harmful reaction products. Results improve prediction of durability and strength of stabilized soils. This method enhances the scientific basis for soil stabilization design.
Influence of Xanthan Gum on Compaction and Shear Strength Behavior of Kaolinite and Loess (10 minutes)
This presentation examines the influence of xanthan gum, a biopolymer, on the compaction and shear strength behavior of kaolinite and loess soils. Xanthan gum is introduced as a sustainable alternative to traditional soil stabilizers. Laboratory tests evaluate how varying concentrations affect compaction characteristics. Results show improvements in shear strength and cohesion due to biopolymer bonding. The study also investigates differences between clayey (kaolinite) and silty (loess) soils. Findings highlight the role of moisture content and curing time. These results support the use of biopolymers in eco-friendly ground improvement.
Geogrid Stabilization of Railway Ballast under Varying Moisture Conditions Evaluated Using Bender Element Shear Wave Technology (13 minutes)
This presentation evaluates the effectiveness of geogrid stabilization in railway ballast under varying moisture conditions. Ballast stability is critical for maintaining track alignment and performance. The study uses bender element shear wave technology to measure stiffness changes. Moisture variation significantly affects ballast behavior and performance. Geogrids improve load distribution and reduce deformation. Experimental results show increased stiffness and improved performance with geogrid reinforcement. The findings support more durable railway infrastructure design.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain how biopolymer treatment affects erosion resistance and overtopping performance of earthen embankments.
- Describe the behavior and engineering applications of water-repellent soils.
- Explain how geochemical pore solution modeling improves evaluation of chemically stabilized soils.
- Discuss the effects of xanthan gum on compaction and shear strength of different soil types.
- Identify how geogrid reinforcement and moisture conditions influence ballast performance.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Geotechnical Engineer
- Civil Engineers (Geotechnical/Foundations focus)
- Engineering Geologists
- Infrastructure & Transportation Engineers
- Construction Engineers and Managers
- Researchers, Faculty, and Students in Geotechnics
How to Earn your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short on-line post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 365 days of the course purchase.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]