The Lees Approach to Applied Mechanical Stabilization (LAAMS) Technical Summary

One of the most common challenges during sitework is the efficient construction over soft soils. For the past thirty years, designs using geosynthetics to stabilize soft soils have relied on empirical methods based on the observation of a narrow sets of test data.

Calling on our years of experience in research and application, combined with our engineering expertise, Tensar has developed a new approach for soil stabilization using geogrids. The Lees Approach to Applied Mechanical Stabilization (LAAMS) is a very powerful and scientifically rigorous design approach. This design approach is derived from fundamental, but well-established engineering principles, which offers greater reliability across a wide range of engineered solutions using geogrids. Best of all, due to the advancements in testing and understanding of composite behavior between geogrid and different granular materials, designers can gain more precision in determining the performance of a mechanically stabilized layer (MSL).

Download the LAAMS Technical Summary

Fill out the form to download your copy of the LAAMS Technical Summary. Inside you'll discover: 

• The theory behind the method along with its testing and validation
• The additional value that the method brings to soil stabilization by accurately determining the deformation of the different layers in the structure and increased precision with regards to traffic and wheel loading.
• The implementation of LAAMS into Tensar+ design software and the benefits to the designer such as:
  • Specifying roadway rutting as small as 0.25 inches,
  • Identifying a competent subgrade protection level
  • Mitigating any excessive elastic deformation of the subgrade due to pumping