Summary: | Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil Integrated Bridge Systems (GRS-IBS) is a form of accelerated bridge construction (ABC) that lowers cost, slashes construction time, improves durability, and increases safety—all at the same time.
GRS-IBS technology uses alternating layers of compacted granular fill material and fabric sheets of geotextile reinforcement to provide support for the bridge. GRS-IBS also provides a smooth transition from the bridge onto the roadway, and alleviates the bump at the bridge problem caused by uneven settlement between the bridge and approaching roadway. The technology offers unique advantages in the construction of small bridges, including; reduced construction time and cost (with costs reduced 25 to 60 percent from conventional construction methods), easy to build with common equipment and materials, and flexible design that's easily modified in the field for unforeseen site conditions, including utilities, obstructions, existing structures, variable soil conditions, and weather.
The specifics of this technology will be discussed including advantages and disadvantages, site considerations, design methodology and construction methodology.
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