An improved understanding of the role of EPS geofoam inclusion in reducing earth pressure on buried structures

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The research outlined in this proposal aims to improve our understanding of the short- and long-term effects of expanded polystyrene (EPS) geofoam inclusion above buried structures (pipes, culverts and tunnels). A preliminary study was conducted by the research group at McGill, funded by an NSERC Engage grant, to develop a laboratory setup that allows for the contact pressure profile on buried cylindrical pipes to be continuously measured under both static and cyclic loading. This collaborative research project will involve extensive experimental investigation to evaluate the role of geofoam density and layer thickness on on the contact pressure distribution at the interface between the structure and the surrounding ground. In addition the creep behavior of the used geofoam material under sustained loading will be investigated. The proposed research will be important for developing a better understanding of the short- and long-term response of buried structures constructed using the induced trench method. This research project will contribute to the training of two Master and one undergraduate student who will be involved in conducting the experimental work and analyzing the collected data.