The landfill Eco-Center Pfatten in Italy used the Polyslope S System, a reinforced soil system, to implement a protective structure consisting of reinforcement geogrids (MIRAGRID® GX), erosion control grids (MIRAGRID Green) a steel shuttering and locally available soil. The result is not only safe and durable but also protects the environment.
The landfill is positioned in an area prone to considerable rockfall dangers, with the risk level ranging from medium to very high. The landfill's operator, Eco-Center AG, faced the task of implementing effective measures to mitigate the risk of rockfall-induced damage and injuries. The responsibility for designing a solution was entrusted to EUT-Engineering who proposed the construction of a rockfall protection barrier utilizing mechanically stabilized earth (MSE). This design aimed to meet several criteria, including maintenance-free longevity, utilization of existing fill material, and the incorporation of ivy (hedera helix) for vegetation.
The devised strategy encompassed the implementation of protective structures to diminish rockfall risks along the western slope above the landfill. This initiative aimed to downgrade the hazard level from "very high/H4" or "high/H3" to "medium/H2". The construction plan involved a protective dam composed of reinforced soil. The protective dam extends over 360 m along the service road's slope edge, with a design to achieve an effective height of over 3.2 m on the uphill side, necessitating slopes of approximately 10 m on the downhill side.
Further refinement of the project was achieved through detailed exchange between designer, contractor and Solmax, enhancing the construction's cost-effectiveness. The use of MIRAGRID GX geogrids, MIRAGRID Green, steel shuttering and locally available filling material was instrumental in this endeavor.
The construction process also emphasized environmental sustainability by reusing onsite fill material, thereby reducing transportation costs. The combination of MIRAGRID Green erosion control grid and a UV-resistant non-woven fabric (BIDIM® Weed Stop PRO) prevented weed from growing, until the establishment and growth of the designed ivy vegetation coverage was successful.
The project's approach to utilizing onsite fill material significantly contributed to economic efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The integration of existing materials with MIRAGRID Green and lost formwork systems minimized the need for transportation of external fill material.
The Polyslope S system was integrated to create vegetated steep slopes, combining engineering excellence with ecological sensitivity
The use of MIRAGRID GX geogrids and MIRAGRID Green erosion control grid facilitated the creation of a durable, ivy-vegetated slope surface, enhancing both safety and visual appeal
Rockfall protection at Ehrensberger Quarry site
Ehrensberger Quarry faced a crucial need to widen its mining area safely, leading to the swift implementation of a rockfall protection dam. Through effective collaboration, the use of Polyslope S, and adherence to stringent guidelines.
Securing a parking area with an impressive rockfall and avalanche defense dam
A rockfall event triggered the need to extend the existing avalanche and rockfall protection dam at the cable car parking area at Stubai Glacier using MIRAGRID geogrids and MIRAGRID erosion control grids, ensuring safety for the upcoming winter season.
Safeguarding the intake structure of a hydroelectric power station against avalanches
ÖBB, Austrian Federal Railways' hydroelectric power station project featuring Solmax's Polyslope S system, consisting of MIRAGRID GX 55 and MIRAGRID Green for avalanche protection.