Today, it is almost impossible to practice geotechnical engineering without using geosynthetics.” Dr J.P. Giroud – 2023 – IGS 40th Anniversary lecture. This quote sums up the far-reaching impact geosynthetics have had on the sustainability and resilience of the infrastructure required for our modern civilisation. But how do geosynthetic materials impact mining projects?
Mining is the backbone of many economies around the world and is required for the functioning of modern technology and civilisation. Mining operations are typically large-scale projects requiring engineering solutions that increasingly need to yield more practical, safe and cost-effective solutions. Utilisation of geosynthetics in mining is growing and the value add is becoming obvious. Mining projects typically have a fast programme, are in remote and challenging locations, and are characterised by the design often being adjusted during the project to suit site conditions or changes in scope. Geosynthetics can respond well to all of these challenges as they are rapid to install, involve significantly reduced transport volumes, have an inherent margin of safety given their factory MQA processes, and are adaptable to a wide range of conditions.