This report documents a study of the feasibility of using soundwalls constructed of recycled plastics in place of conventional building materials. Important considerations in selecting materials used in this study include: environmental impact, acoustics, aesthetics, performance, safety, and cost. Various recycled materials were solicited from commercial manufacturers and subjected to a number of laboratory and field tests. These tests include three-point bending tests, impact hammer excitations, and exposure to different types of weather. Based on those results, several of the most promising materials were selected for construction of a full-scale field installation of a test section of a soundwall. This field section was monitored for a period of one year for response to environmental factors such as wind and exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Analysis of the field structure includes system identification of dynamic characteristics, finite element simulation, and acoustic performance. Results show that noise insertion loss of the soundwall is exceptional. Structurally, the prototype soundwall performed adequately over the course of the project with only a few members showing detrimental effects from the harsh thermal environment. System identification and experimental analysis of test data were successfully implemented and indicate that the prototype soundwall is moderately wind sensitive. A finite element model of the soundwall was developed to simulate both static and dynamic response to loads. Using methods of modal superposition and random response, deflection was predicted for the top of the wall due to application of a strong wind event.

Innovative Bridge Design Handbook: Construction, Rehabilitation, and Maintenance, Second Edition, brings together the essentials of bridge engineering across design, assessment, research and construction. Written by an international group of experts, each chapter is divided into two parts: the first covers design issues, while the second presents current research into the innovative design approaches used across the world. This new edition includes new topics such as foot bridges, new materials in bridge engineering and soil-foundation structure interaction. All chapters have been updated to include the latest concepts in design, construction, and maintenance to reduce project cost, increase structural safety, and maximize durability. Code and standard references have been updated. - Completely revised and updated with the latest in bridge engineering and design - Provides detailed design procedures for specific bridges with solved examples - Presents structural analysis including numerical methods (FEM), dynamics, risk and reliability, and innovative structural typologies

The primary goal of this project was to identify innovative noise barrier designs that had the potential to be implemented in Arizona. The study initially focused on gathering existing literature on noise barrier materials and designs that were non-conventional. Literature was collected on dozens of noise barrier research projects in 12 countries around the world. Many of the barrier designs consisted of treatments to the top edge of the barrier to change or disrupt the diffraction pathway from the noise source to the receiver. The results of the previous research studies were compiled into a matrix to assist in evaluating the various barrier designs and materials. The evaluation matrix was used to score the barrier designs based on their acoustic performance, as well as economic, constructability, maintenance, and aesthetic considerations. Also, an attempt was made to identify the processes by which Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) selects and approves various barrier designs for implementation on a project. Based on the research and evaluation conducted for this study, it was recommended that two innovative barrier designs be implemented in Arizona - the T-top design with absorptive material placed on the top of the horizontal portion of the barrier and a vertical barrier with absorptive material applied to the face of the barrier. These two barrier designs have been shown in the available literature to reduce noise levels by up to 3 decibels, which could reduce overall barrier heights by as much as 5 feet compared with a conventional noise barrier of concrete or masonry block construction.

Innovative Design Solutions In Landscape Architecture Steven L. Cantor This comprehensive visual reference presents the full range of landscape architecture practice, from traditional subjects to contemporary applications. The projects are organized by the type of firm, and each firm is represented by several projects, allowing the reader to compare the design process, style, and content of works by the same designers. This volume is an excellent companion to Mr. Cantor's Contemporary Trends in Landscape Architecture, which examines nine compelling new trends in the field. Fifty projects are documented, each in meticulous detail, including site plan, technical illustrations, and construction documents. Each landscape architect contributes his or her own style and personality to these projects, and offers personal insights, anecdotes, and perspective. The book is beautifully illustrated with drawings, high-quality black and white photographs, and a sixteen-page color insert. Innovative Design Solutions in Landscape Architecture documents the ingenious results of solving challenging problems, and emphasizes diversity in its range of project types and examples. For some projects the process that led to a design solution is the most compelling aspect, while other projects draw their strength from the individuality and grace of unusual detailing. Still others are in the middle ground, where idealized design intersects practical construction techniques. The author, a registered landscape architect, employs an interdisciplinary approach that encourages interaction among many professionals, including landscape architects, architects, graphic artists, artists, scientists, economists, urban planners, writers, engineers, and surveyors. The areas of practice, projects, and firms include: The Private Sector-Large Firms Anshen + Allen, Baltimore, MD Clarke + Rapuano Inc., New York City, NY DHM, Denver, CO Carol R. Johnson & Associates, Inc., Cambridge, MA Jones & Jones, Seattle, WA Royston Hanamoto Alley & Abey, Mill Valley, CA The Private Sector-Small and Intermediate Firms Jack Chandler & Associates, Yountville, CA Hargreaves Associates, San Francisco, CA Jacobs/Ryan & Associates, Chicago, IL Elena Saporta/John Taguiri, Cambridge, MA Schmidt Design Group, San Diego, CA Martha Schwartz, Inc., Cambridge, MA SPURLOCK/POIRIER, San Diego, CA The Public and Academic Sector Abyssinian Development Corporation, Harlem, New York City, NY Boston Urban Gardeners, Boston, MA Central Park Conservancy, New York City, NY Prospect Park Alliance, Brooklyn, NY Iowa State University, Ames, IA New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ These diverse examples are followed by a provocative conclusion that examines and discusses principles of project management that encourage and reinforce creative design solutions and problem solving. An inclusive and thoroughly cross-referenced index also assists the process of analyzing project types and making comparisons. The author's meticulous detail, structured organization, and eye-catching illustrations make reading Innovative Design Solutions in Landscape Architecture a pleasurable, enriching, and educational experience. It is an invaluable reference source that provides a wealth of information and insights for years to come.

Prepared by the Highway Innovative Technology Evaluation Center (HITEC), a CERF service center. This report describes a HITEC evaluation designed to determine the basic capabilities and limitations of the MSE Plus System, manufactured by SSL, LLC, for use as a mechanically stabilized earth retaining system. The evaluation was conducted based on material, design, construction, performance, and quality assurance information outlined in the HITEC Protocol. TheØMSE PlusØSystem features rectangular segmental precast concrete facing panels and galanized welded wire, grid-type soil reinforcement.