Geosynthetics are a new class of high tensile strength polymeric reinforcement gaining rapid acceptance within the construction industry as an alternative to traditional metallic reinforcement in structures and soil systems. Current applications include the reinforcement of soil structures, asphalt pavements, secondary reinforcement in concrete structures and the enhancement of the uplift capacity of buried pipelines. C-GRID is an organized research unit with the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Carleton University committed to on-going research into new areas of geosynthetic reinforcement applications, and to the realization of the full potential of this evolving technology. The Center intends to remain at the forefront of improving and further developing testing methods, evaluating new products, design methods, field trials, construction technologies, computer-aided design software, and the training of qualified personnel through continuing education.

Testing
Carleton University's newly constructed Civil Engineering laboratory houses the extensive geosynthetics testing facilities of C-GRID. The facilities include large scale creep frames, uniaxial and biaxial loading equipment, horizontal and vertical cyclic loading systems. The Center also has unique large-scale pull-out and shear box test facilities for soil interaction problems. It has one of the largest test pits in North America for asphalt structures and pipeline systems, and an advanced concrete laboratory for testing reinforced concrete structures under static, dynamic and impact loads.

Research
The Center carries out both basic and applied research. Research projects vary from the determination of the basic properties of the reinforcement to the quantification of design parameters for specific applications.

Technology Development
Through the research program at C-GRID, new technologies in geosynthetics design, applications and installation are developed and are transferred to industry for commercial use.

Journal
A journal of research findings and information is published by the Center to keep geosynthetic manufacturers, designers, researchers, end users and the construction industry up to date on the latest applications and technologies.

Education
C-GRID conducts workshops, courses and seminars to educate engineers, producers, contractors and end users of geosynthetics, and to introduce them to new technologies.

Consulting
Services Technical advice and consulting services are offered by the Research Members of C-GRID to industry, governments, engineers and end users of geosynthetics. The Center provides access to the latest technical information and advice on new applications.

The Center for Geosynthetics Research Information and Development (C-GRID) was established in 1991 as an organized research unit within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. C-GRID evolved naturally in response to a growing demand for pioneering research in the area of polymner grids and other geosynthetics. In order to establish a close liaison between the research community and industry and to expedite technology transfer from research laboratories to practical applications, the Center consists of Research and Industrial Associates.

Research Members
The Research Members of C-GRID are involved in the conduct and supervision of leading edge research on geosynthetic reinforcements as well as applied research funded by goverment and industry. Members are expected to actively participate in the Center's on-going administration and policy decisions, publish research results and take part in C-GRID-sponsored workshops and seminars. As part of the Center's partnership with industry, Research Members will provide technical advice, consultation and training courses to industry and government clients.

Industrial Associates
Upon recommendation of the Research Members of C-GRID, interested idustrial, governmment or other research organizations may be invited to become Industrial Associates of the Center. The relationship between Industrial Associates and the Center is that of a partnership, in which the Associates are given the opportunity to identify research needs of industry and to give advice regarding the research undertaken by the Center. In exchange, the Associate Members will provide sponsorship, financial support and expertise. Membership fees for Industrial Associates are determined by the management board.

Organizational Structure
The administration, research activities and strategic planning of C-GRID are designed to foster communication and cooperation between the Research Members and the Industrucal Associates. An advisory council, composed of representatives from industry, government and Carleton University, oversees the operating policies of the Center. A management board, composed of research members, coordinates the planning and implementation of research conducted at the Center.