Innovative stabilization techniques for slope cuts on Shale 1

[georam]

Slope cuts on shale for road projects in the US/Canadian prairies are characterized by frequent progressive failures. As a result, the final slopes of the cut will be stable at about 8H:1V to 10H:1V, as the residual friction angle of shale is ONLY in the order between 4 to 10 degrees. The shale in this area are generally soft, and appears like "soil", often with slickensided features. Water may usually the cause of initial landslides in such a slope.

Anyone can provide some information on the latest techniques on how to stabilize these slopes without cutting into such a flat slope. Anything such as soil nailing, horizontal drainage system, geofibers, or other ideas which had been implemented for prevention of landslides in this type of slopes ?

Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[KAM_imported]

I recommend you contact a reputable ground improvement contractor (such as Nicholson or Hayward-Baker) for their experiences in this regard.

 

[TechGrad]

I just learned of a new ground improvement method in a seminar that is used to provide slope stabilization, among other things. The product is called Rammed Aggregate Piers. They have a website

http://www.geopiers.com

for more info. Hope this helps.