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As a global market leader in the development and production of geosynthetics for foundation reinforcement, asphalt reinforcement and the reinforcement of ground structures, Tensar International knows how to save (construction) time, reduce construction costs and achieve significant environmental benefits in many cases. An interview with Paul ter Horst about the application of geosynthetics in the infrastructure sector and the latest developments.
Tensar's solutions are used in countless civil engineering projects around the world. "Our geosynthetics are used for stabilizing foundation structures, such as roads, runways, crane emplacements. Also for reinforcing asphalt layers, erosion protection, retaining walls and steep slopes," Ter Horst begins. "Surely the most well-known product for the infrastructure sector is Tensar TriAx, the result of thirty years of experience in foundation reinforcement. In the process, the original structure of our biaxial geogrids has been radically renewed. Thanks to the triangular shape of the grid, performance is guaranteed in all directions."
Tensar maintains an entirely unique philosophy, preferring to be closely involved in the design of a foundation and reinforced soil structure. "Thanks to our years of knowledge and experience with projects around the world, we always know how to get the most out of our geosynthetics," explains Ter Horst. "A thorough design is then a requirement. We therefore not only produce and sell geosynthetics, but we also take care of the engineering using our own software. We also take into account local regulations. In the Netherlands this is the CROW methodology for foundations and reinforced soil, while for a project in Hong Kong, for example, we calculate with the requirements applicable there. And so there are often unique standards and laws and regulations for each application. Even for crane stands and work roads at wind farms, currently a hot topic, geosynthetics definitely prove their added value. For example, Europe's largest cranes currently stand on a thin granular mattress, the TensarTech Stratum. This is a continuous cellular system made up of dimensionally stable geogrids and sturdy connecting rods."
Tensar is often involved early in a Design & Construct project. "Whether it is the construction of a wind farm, the construction of a new highway with structures or a road widening, the application possibilities of geo-plastics are vast. We are the inventors of the geogrid and continue to continuously develop our products and bring them to the attention of the right parties. We do this in the Netherlands in close cooperation with our distributor Joosten Kunststoffen within Joosten Concepts, which enables us to relieve infrastructure contractors of all their worries from A to Z," concludes Ter Horst.
