9402250 Yegian The use of geosynthetics in geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering practice continues to grow rapidly, such as in geomembrane-lined canals, reservoirs, hazardous waste containment and municipal landfills. The response of these geotechnical structures to dynamic or seismic loading is not being adequately addressed in design or in research. Recognizing the potential seismic vulnerability of landfills, the 0. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established guidelines, effective October 1993, requiring seismic safety evaluations of all new landfills. Hence there is an urgent need for improved understanding of the earthquake response of geosynthetic/soil systems used for seepage control in landfills. This project focuses on the seismic safety of waste containment and landfills structures. The objectives are to: 1. Understand the dynamic interface shear behavior of geosynthetic/geosynthetic and, more importantly, geosynthetic/soil interfaces. 2. Develop a mathematical model for predicting the dynamic response of simple geosynthetic/soil systems. 3. Validate the analytical model by using shaking table test results. This research program will provide an understanding of the dynamic response of geosynthetic/soil systems; knowledge that is essential for a rational evaluation of the seismic safety of a geotechnical or a geoenvironmental facility that incorporates geosynthetics, such as a waste containment or a landfill. ***
