Design Loads and Partial Safety Factors for Geogrids in Soil Reinforcement

In this paper, various considerations in the determination of design loads and partial safety factors for geogrids in soil reinforcement are described. Factors considered include the phenomena of stress rupture, creep, hydrolysis, weathering, mechanical damage, chemical and microbiological attack which would lead to degradation of the reinf orcemen,t in the long term. These are affected by environmental conditions, of which temperature, humidity, pH and mechanical aggressiveness of the fill used are key factors. The situations particular to Hong Kong are highlighted in these considerations. A brief account of the control system for the use of these products in Hong Kong is then presented.