Geocell Installation – Geocell Retaining Wall

Geocell retaining wall system is a structure built for the purpose of stabilizing very precipitous slopes using minimal land area. Besides constructing quickly, it can allow for larger displacement compared with concrete retaining walls. Geocell Earth Retention Systems is durable and resistant to water, which offers a more flexible cost-effective retaining system than a conventional earth retention system.

Installation can typically be carried out between five (5) laborers and one (1) supervisor.

Site and Subgrade Preparation

• The work site shall be well prepared before the installation. The ground shall be compacted in accordance with the project specification. All surfaces to be deployed shall be free of all foreign and organic material or sharp objects.
• Complete initial earthworks, excavation, or fills, according to plans.
• Remove in-situ soils that are unacceptable for the Geocell earth retention system foundation and replace them with suitable materials.
• Install geotextile along the back of the retaining wall. Geotextile will protect the system with filtration and drainage functions.
• Place the granular base material and compact the base system to 95% standard Proctor Dry Density.

Footing Installation

• Use the stretcher frame to expand the section and install J-pins (permanent or temporary) to anchor the edge cells.
• To stretch the section to the maximum area and allow it to relax.

Placement of the Drainage System

• Install geopipe in accordance with the designs. Ensure the drainage system is functioned by gravity. Ensure all pipe connections are properly made and the sub-drain pipe is connected to the outlet pipe or trench.
• Where specified, encapsulate the pipe with geotextile wrapped in bedding material (e.g. sand, gravel, clear stone, etc.)
• Ensure that the discharge at the outlet end will not cause localized erosion that may effect the stability of the system

Placement of the Geocell panels

• Expand the Geocell section into its designated position.
• Ensure the panel is expanded to the maximum area and allow it to relax.
• Align and fasten the panels. Ensure they are specified as designs.
• Backfill the system with the infill material and level to approximately 50mm above the cells.
• Compact infill material with equipments and methods in accordance with the project specification.

• After compaction of each layer, remove excess materials off the top of the Geocell wall section so that the top of the cellular structure is visible.
• Biaxial or Uniaxial Geogrid may be necessary to build the reinforced wall. Generally, it will be applied at the base and every 3-4 layers of the Geocell. The panel layout for the Geocell should be determined before installation commences.

When stacking the next layer, ensure that:

1. The proper setback of each panel is maintained as much as the design requires.
2. Splicing of two or more panels is not installed in the front-to-back direction.
3. Proper side-to-side cell alignment is maintained to prevent loss of cell infill material.
4. Compact every surface of the panels well with equipment.