When new slopes are planned or existing slopes have failed, Schnabel’s engineers evaluate the stability of the slopes using computer programs including Plaxis, STABL and Slope/W. When dealing with slope stability questions, the site investigation techniques and laboratory testing program are paramount. Seemingly minor variations in soil strength or groundwater conditions often are the deciding factors and our engineers are trained and experienced in identifying these issues. Design of new slopes and existing slope remediation can include site grading, benching, installation of subdrainage, removal and replacement of slope material, buttresses, and vertical or horizontal anchors or reinforcement.
The marine clays in the Mid-Atlantic region have been the source of many slope and structural failures. Schnabel’s founder, Jim Schnabel (located in our Gaithersburg, Maryland office), is one of the pioneers in analyzing and understanding the behavior of these soils and developing workable geotechnical design alternatives when faced with constructing in these soils. Schnabel has experienced similar conditions and challenges in the claystones of the Appalachians.
|