Bodkins
HDPE strips used by some Geosystems to connect geogrid to geogrid or a facing unit to a geogrid.
Bodkins are structural links that connect lengths of uniaxial geogrid together (or geogrids to other units) while ensuring loads transfer. Geogrids are generally overlapped or wrapped around the structure they need to be jointed to with the bodkin weaved in and out of the grid mesh to fasten the joint.
Clause 3.2.4.4 of BD 70/03 within Volume 2 Section 1 Part 5 of the DMRB requires that bodkin joints of polymeric reinforcements be as detailed in a BBA or equivalent certificate.
Typically the exact shape and size of the bodkins depend on the characteristics of the geogrid, hence different geogrids might require uniquely shaped and sized bodkins.
It is common for manufacturers of geogrid to develop and sometimes also certify their proprietary joining systems. For example, TENSAR RE Geogrids for reinforced soil retaining wall and bridge abutment systems (BBA Roads and Bridges Agrément Certificate No 99/R109, 2008 ) include TENSAR proprietary uniaxial geogrids and bodkins, designed to be used when a full strength connection is required between geogrids. Bodkins are also used to connect geogrids to elements such as concrete facing units.
- BS EN ISO 10319:2008 Geosynthetics. Wide-width tensile test
- BS EN ISO 10321:2008 Geosynthetics. Tensile test for joints/seams by wide-width strip method
- BS EN 14475:2006 Execution of special geotechnical works. Reinforced fill
- BS 8006-1: 2010 Code of practice for strengthened / reinforced soils and other fills
- Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Volume 2 Section 1 Part 5, BD 70/03 Strengthened/Reinforced Soils and Other Fills for Retaining Walls and Bridge Abutments. Use of BS 8006: 1995.
