Centrifuge Modelling of a Soil Slope Reinforced by Geosynthetic Cementitious Composite Mats

Soil erosion and slope instability caused by seepage and rainfall are major problems, especially in mountainous areas. Many researchers focus on a new technologies or materials to stabilise soil slopes. In this study, the novel geosynthetic cementitious composite mat (GCCM) was studied for its ability to reinforce soil slopes. A series of centrifuge tests were performed on the soil slope model under calibrated seepage and rainfall conditions. Medical gypsum plaster sheet, which has an equivalent strength and stiffness to GCCM, was used to reinforce a model soil slope. The results showed that GCCM-reinforcement could reduce slope displacement by contributing its high stiffness and creating an interface frictional force with the slope. In addition, the GCCM could delay the increase in pore-water pressure in the soil slope during rainfall, thus diminishing the hydraulic force acting on the slope, even if the slope surface was not fully covered by GCCMs. Overall, the results indicate that GCCM has good slope reinforcement potential.