Strata Global

MSE wall repair

Introduction

MSE (Mechanically Stabilised Earth) walls are widely used in civil engineering projects to support embankments, slopes, and resist lateral earth pressures. However, like all retaining structures, they can face damage or degradation over time. While MSE walls can be repaired, it’s important to clarify that MSE refers to the wall construction method itself, not the repair process. The term “MSE wall repair” is often used, but the methods for repairing these walls are generally the same as those used in the repair of other retaining walls.

What is MSE wall repair?

MSE wall repair refers to the process of fixing issues in an MSE wall, which is constructed using layers of reinforcing materials such as geogrids or geotextiles, combined with compacted soil. These walls are designed to support the weight of the earth behind them and to stabilise slopes. Over time, damage can occur due to factors like erosion, drainage problems, or material degradation, and repairs are needed to maintain the wall’s integrity. While MSE walls can be repaired, the repair process itself typically involves common retaining wall repair techniques such as:

  • Replacing or reinforcing damaged panels or structural elements.
  • Addressing any drainage issues that may be causing water pressure buildup.
  • Adding or repairing the geosynthetic layers (like geogrids or geotextiles) that reinforce the wall.
MSE Wall repair with StrataGridTM and StrataBlockTM by Strata Global

This process helps restore the wall’s stability and extends its lifespan, ensuring it continues to serve its purpose effectively.

How is MSE wall repair done?

The repair process for MSE walls typically involves several key steps, similar to any retaining wall repair:

  1. Assessment: The first step is to assess the damage and determine the extent of the problem. This includes inspecting the wall’s facing, reinforcing elements, and drainage systems.
  2. Identification: Once the assessment is complete, the underlying causes of the damage—such as poor drainage or soil settlement—are identified.
  3. Stabilisation: If necessary, temporary stabilisation measures may be put in place to prevent further damage during the repair process.
  4. Excavation: Any damaged sections of the wall, such as cracked facing panels or deteriorated reinforcement materials, are carefully removed.
  5. Repair and replacement: Damaged panels or geosynthetic layers are replaced or reinforced, restoring the structural integrity of the wall.
  6. Reinforcement: New layers of geosynthetic materials, such as geogrids or geotextiles, may be added to strengthen the wall.
  7. Drainage Improvement: Proper drainage is crucial for the long-term stability of MSE walls. Any drainage issues are addressed to prevent future water damage.
  8. Monitoring: After repairs are complete, it’s important to regularly monitor the wall to ensure it remains stable and performs as intended.

Advantages of Repairing MSE Walls

  • Cost-effective: Repairing an existing wall is often more economical than replacing it entirely. It can also be more sustainable, as it minimises the need for new materials.
  • Extended lifespan: Repairing the wall addresses immediate damage while also preventing future issues, helping to extend the life of the structure.
  • Improved safety: Repairing potential hazards ensures the wall remains safe and stable for the future.

When to repair or replace an MSE wall?

Determining whether a wall needs repair or replacement requires a thorough analysis. Key factors include:

  • Visual inspection: Inspecting the wall for cracks, erosion, or other visible signs of damage.
  • Structural integrity: Evaluating whether the wall can still bear the necessary loads without risk of failure.
  • Cost-benefit analysis: Comparing the costs of repair versus replacement to determine the most efficient option.

In many cases, repair is sufficient to restore the wall’s functionality, but in cases of severe damage, replacement may be necessary. While MSE walls can experience wear and tear over time, the repair process is similar to that of other retaining walls, involving techniques like panel replacement, reinforcement, and drainage improvement. It’s important to address these issues early to prevent further damage, improve safety, and extend the life of the wall. In doing so, you can maintain the integrity of the wall without the high costs of replacement.

Don’t wait for minor issues to become major problems. Contact Strata Global now to discuss your MSE wall repair needs and ensure the longevity and safety of your earth retaining structures. Let us help you maintain the integrity of your infrastructure with our reliable solutions!

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Harold W. Hill, Jr

Director, President – Glen Raven Technical Fabrics

Strata/Glen Raven tenure: 10 years/28 years
Total industry experience: 35 years


MBA – Wake Forest University

 

Directs the strategic direction of Glen Raven’s automotive, protective apparel, military, geogrid, outdoor and logistic businesses.

J. Craig Bell

Director, General Manager, Strata Inc.

Strata/Strata Inc. tenure: 3 years/14 years
Total industry experience: 25 years


MBA – Georgia State University

 

Led the integration of Strata Inc. business operations into the headquarters of GRTF and transition from USA based to India based manufacturing.

Ashok Bhawnani

Director

Strata tenure: 17 years
Total industry experience: 47 years

CA – ICA

 

Played a key role in the establishment of Strata’s India operations. Provides vision for product innovation and leveraging new technology trends.

Phil McGoldrick

Global Technical Sales Director

Strata tenure: 7 years
Total industry experience: 32 years


Civil & Geotechnical Engineer (First class)


Provides highly technical and innovative civil engineering solutions in India and around the world. Responsible for the design and execution of large-scale geotechnical projects around the world including Australia, Asia, Europe, Africa, Middle East, and South America.

Shahrokh Bagli

CTO – Chief Technology Officer

Strata tenure: 9 years
Total industry experience: 48 years


BTech (Hons), MTech (Civil) Both IIT Bombay, DMS (Bombay University), FIE, FIGS, Chartered Engineer

 

Streamlines the designs of Geosynthetics and has brought innovation in geogrid and geocell design application.

Mujib Katrawala

COO – Projects and Sales

Strata tenure: 13 years
Total industry experience: 24 years


MBA – University of Gujarat

 

Leads the monetization of products and solutions while ensuring highest execution quality and project profitability.

Chandrashekhar Kanade

COO – Technical Textiles

Strata tenure: 13 years
Total industry experience: 33 years


BE (Mechanical) – Nagpur University

 

Drives excellence in process design, product features and cost effectiveness in production.

Govind Keswani

CFO – Chief Financial Officer

Strata tenure: 8 years
Total industry experience: 35 years


CA – ICA, ICWA – ICWAI

 

Leads the finance, accounting, taxation, commercial, legal and IT functions and assisting on all strategic and operational matters.

Gautam Dalmia

CDO – Chief Development Officer

Strata tenure: 10 years
Total industry experience: 13 years


MBA – ISB, Hyderabad

 

Leads diversification of the product portfolio, monetizing the new products and ensuring successful sustained financial growth of the company top line.

Narendra Dalmia

CEO – Chief Executive Officer

Strata tenure: 14 years
Total industry experience: 42 years


B Tech (Chemical) – IIT Delhi

 

Leads day-to-day business operations of the company with focus on capacity expansion, product and process improvement.

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