CE Department Organizes Six-Day Faculty Development Programme on “Recent Advances in Application of Geosynthetics”
The Department of Civil Engineering, Vidya Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) organized a six-day Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on “Recent Advances in Application of Geosynthetics” from 16 January to 27 January 2023. The programme focused on the fundamentals, design principles, practical applications, and recent developments in geosynthetic materials and technologies.
Day 1 – 16 January 2023
The FDP commenced with an inaugural session, followed by two technical sessions.
The first technical session was delivered by Er. Minimol Korula (Vice President & Head, Maccaferri Environmental Solutions Pvt. Ltd.) on “Introduction to Geosynthetics: Types, Properties & Applications.” The session introduced participants to various types of geosynthetics, including geotextiles, geogrids, geomembranes, geonets, and geocomposites. Their properties and functions, such as separation, filtration, reinforcement, drainage, and protection, were discussed.
The second session was handled by Er. Annapooni Iyer (Former Assistant General Manager, Maccaferri Environmental Solutions Pvt. Ltd.) on “Case Studies in Soil Reinforcement and Retaining Structures.” The session highlighted practical applications of geosynthetics in soil reinforcement and mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) structures, supported by real-life case studies.
Day 2 – 18 January 2023
The first technical session was conducted by Dr. T. G. Antony Balan (Chairman (Retd.), Brahmaputra Board) on “Geotextiles in Pavement Design and Subgrade Stabilization.” The session highlighted the use of geotextiles in weak subgrade conditions, pavement construction, and soil separation. Design considerations and practical applications in roads, highways, and airfield pavements were also discussed.
The second session was delivered by Dr. E. J. James (Pro Vice-Chancellor, Karunya University) on “Drainage Applications and Erosion Control Using Geosynthetics.” The session focused on the application of geosynthetic materials in surface and subsurface drainage, erosion control, canals, slopes, highways, and coastal regions.
Day 3 – 20 January 2023
The third day featured two technical sessions conducted by Dr. K. B. Maheshwaran Namboodiripad (Professor (Retd.), NIT Calicut and Visiting Faculty, VAST).
The first session, titled “Reinforced Soil Structures and MSE Walls,” dealt with the principles and applications of reinforced soil structures and mechanically stabilized earth walls. Construction techniques, design concepts, and performance benefits were explained with practical examples.
The second session focused on “Design Principles for Geogrid Reinforcement Systems.” The speaker discussed important design parameters such as tensile strength, soil-geogrid interaction, reinforcement spacing, and safety factors. The session provided participants with valuable insights into the analysis and design of geogrid reinforcement systems.
Day 4 – 23 January 2023
The fourth day focused on the environmental and water-related applications of geosynthetics. Both technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Santhosh Prasannan (Senior Consultant, MNS Engineers).
The first session, “Geosynthetics in Landfill Liners and Waste Containment,” highlighted the use of geomembranes and geotextiles in landfill systems and waste containment. The role of geosynthetics in preventing soil and groundwater contamination was also discussed.
The second session, “Coastal Protection and River Training Applications,” explored the use of geotextile tubes, geobags, and other erosion-control systems for coastal protection, riverbank stabilization, and flood management. Practical applications and environmental considerations were also presented.
Day 5 – 25 January 2023
The fifth day commenced with a technical session by Er. Minimol Korula on “Geosynthetics in Slope Stabilization and Road Embankments.” The session explained the application of geosynthetics for improving slope stability and strengthening road embankments. Reinforcement mechanisms, construction methods, and design considerations were discussed with reference to infrastructure projects.
The second session was conducted by Er. Annapooni Iyer on “Design Software and Modern Construction Techniques.” The session introduced participants to software tools used for the design and analysis of geosynthetic reinforcement systems. Modern construction practices and the role of digital tools in improving design efficiency were also discussed.
Day 6 – 27 January 2023
The concluding day featured a panel discussion on “Recent Research Trends in Geosynthetics” involving the resource persons. The discussion covered emerging materials, advanced geocomposites, innovative applications, sustainable infrastructure, and future research opportunities in geosynthetic engineering.
The programme concluded with an Interaction and Feedback Session, during which participants shared their experiences and learning outcomes. Participants appreciated the practical orientation of the FDP, industry-based case studies, and opportunities for interaction with experienced academicians and industry professionals.
The six-day programme provided participants with comprehensive exposure to the latest developments, practical applications, design approaches, and research trends in geosynthetics, thereby contributing to their professional development and strengthening their understanding of emerging technologies in civil engineering.
