Hybrid rockfall barrier — new design methodology based on the Colorado full-scale test experience

Authors: Cerro, M; Giacchetti, G; Lelli, M; Grimod, A; Arul, A Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1604_24_Cerro

Cite As:
Cerro, M, Giacchetti, G, Lelli, M, Grimod, A & Arul, A 2016, 'Hybrid rockfall barrier — new design methodology based on the Colorado full-scale test experience ', in PM Dight (ed.), APSSIM 2016: Proceedings of the First Asia Pacific Slope Stability in Mining Conference, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 393-406, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1604_24_Cerro



Abstract:
Hybrid rockfall barriers combine the energy absorption capabilities of a dynamic rockfall barrier with the reduced-maintenance advantages of drapery mesh. The aim of this innovative design is not to capture and stop the falling rocks, as the barriers tested according to ETAG 027 (EOTA 2008), but to contain the bounce of the rock and to drive it down the slope beneath the mesh draped down the slope face. Although this type of rockfall structure has already been applied worldwide, there is still a lack of knowledge in the design methodology. The purpose of this paper is to present a simplified model to design hybrid barriers based on the field experiences and research carried out by the Colorado Department of Transportation, “Colorado’s full-scale field testing of rockfall attenuator system" (Arndt et al. 2009), giving designers a tool for sizing both the structure in elevation that the interception structure (net) and assessing the forces transmitted to the foundations.

Keywords: hybrid rockfall barrier

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