In an era where climate change is reshaping our environmental landscape, a recent study from the Department of Civil Engineering at Universitas Indonesia is shedding light on an innovative solution to a pressing problem: slope stability during heavy rainfall. Led by Wiwik Rahayu, the research explores the potential of using recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) as a sustainable method for slope protection, particularly in urban areas where construction and demolition waste is rapidly accumulating.
As rainfall patterns become more erratic and intense due to climate change, the risk of slope failure increases significantly. This poses a threat not only to natural landscapes but also to infrastructure, potentially leading to costly damages and safety hazards. Rahayu’s research highlights the dual challenge faced by the construction sector: managing waste while ensuring the integrity of our built environment.
“The use of recycled concrete aggregate for slope protection is both a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative,” Rahayu explained. “By utilizing construction waste, we can mitigate slope failures while addressing the pressing issue of waste management in urban redevelopment.”
The study employs advanced numerical modeling techniques to analyze pore-water pressure distribution and overall slope stability when RCA is applied. By measuring the soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) using high-suction polymer sensors, the research provides critical insights into how RCA can function as a capillary barrier system during rainfall events. The findings indicate a notable increase in the safety factor of slopes protected with RCA, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing the risk of failure.
“Rainfall infiltration reduces soil suction and shear strength, which can drastically decrease the safety factor of a slope,” Rahayu noted. “Our results show that incorporating RCA not only enhances stability but also offers a practical solution to a growing problem.”
This innovative approach to slope protection could have significant commercial implications for the construction industry. As urban areas continue to expand and the demand for sustainable practices rises, the adoption of RCA could lead to reduced costs associated with slope failures and the associated repairs. Furthermore, it positions construction firms as environmentally responsible entities, aligning with global sustainability goals.
The research, published in ‘Results in Engineering’, underscores the importance of integrating waste management into construction practices. It paves the way for future developments in the field, suggesting that the construction sector can turn challenges into opportunities by embracing sustainable materials like RCA.
For more information on this groundbreaking research, you can visit the Department of Civil Engineering, Universitas Indonesia.