A major research project to collate key information on geosynthetic barrier systems is underway thanks to a grant from the IGS Foundation (IGSF).
The IGSF has awarded Master’s student Vahid Vakili funding to collect and summarize the worldwide regulations, design recommendations and guidelines for geosynthetic barrier systems. The findings will be publicly available for all to access.
Mr Vakili, who is studying at Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada, works in the geotechnical and environmental engineering fields and has experience with North American geotechnical design regulations and environmental assessment guidelines. He is supported by IGSF Board of Trustees member Kent von Maubeuge, together gathering the latest findings on geosynthetics landfill barriers.
Mr Vakili said: “Developing knowledge about geosynthetics in landfill use will help improve and preserve the quality of the surrounding environment while meeting the requirements for waste removal. This project will allow me to learn more about this new field of technology, network with fellow professionals, and work on a project that helps the environment.”
He added he hoped his findings will better inform engineering and construction professionals in their decision-making when considering and implementing geosynthetic barriers. Mr Vakili is expected to begin his research this month and conclude the project in early 2023.
Jonathan Shamrock, chairman of the IGS Technical Committee on Barrier System (TC-B), said the TC-B fully supported Mr Vakili’s work, which would build on efforts previously carried out by the TC-B.
IGSF Secretary-Treasurer Boyd Ramsey said: “Vahid’s proposal is an ambitious undertaking which is expected to have worldwide impact in its reach and usefulness. The Foundation is proud to be able to facilitate such an endeavour, made possible by our generous donors and supportive community.”
The IGSF was set up in 2019 to support and expand the education and learning initiatives of the IGS. It has already amassed nearly $100,000 in donations with previous grants providing 19 scholarships to attend the virtual GeoAmericas 2020 conference and creating video versions of the Educate the Educators ‘Introduction to geosynthetics’ lectures available on demand. It has most recently given funding to the Federal University of São Carlos in São Paulo, Brazil, to create a series of videos demonstrating various geosynthetics materials and how they respond to different forms of testing.
Learn more about the Foundation’s work in its latest annual report. If you would like make a funding request or donate, visit the IGSF’s website here.
