The Effective used of EPS-Geofoam at Bridge Approach Backfill: Godavari Bridge, Nashik, India

Abstract

This paper presents a research study on a bridge site located along Indian NH-3 over Godavari River, Nashik, India. On 2018 bridge almost complete its age 58 year, it has weakened therefore Nashik Municipal Corporation decided Demolition Bridge. Before Demolition Bridge it found measurable bump at end of approach portion so, this problem need to consider during study for future Reconstruction of bridge. Differential settlement at end of the bridge Approach is creating many undesirable effects such as: decrease in vehicle’s steering response, driver’s distraction, increasing maintenance cost, in addition to reduction in a transportation agency’s public image. Paper describes studies Finite Element Modelling [FEM] of bridge designed construction details of the reconstruction works performed on old existing bridge embankment system. Field monitoring studies were conducted for almost 5 month to study the settlements under the Conventional backfill with comparing PLAXIS 2D FEM result at newly constructed Approach system. FEM studies attempted in this study showed that settlements could be reasonably predicted by modelling these EPS-geofoam bridge approach backfilling. Based on the Numerical FEM studies, it’s conclude that the e?ectiveness of utilizing EPS-geofoam as an bridge approach backfill material was addressed to mitigate the di?erential settlements under approach Transition slab.

Introduction

The text discusses the “bump” problem at bridge approaches, which occurs due to differential settlement between bridge decks and adjacent embankments. This uneven settlement creates unsafe driving conditions and leads to high maintenance costs for highway departments worldwide. Studies show that the issue is widespread and often caused by factors such as poor construction practices, inadequate compaction, weak subgrade soils, drainage issues, and void formation.

To address this, the text reviews the use of lightweight geofoam materials (EPS geofoam) as an alternative backfill solution. EPS geofoam is valued for its low weight, adequate strength, and ability to reduce stress on foundation soils. It is widely used in highway and bridge embankments, especially EPS 100 grade, which meets required engineering standards.

A case study of the Kannamwar Bridge in India (Godavari River, Nashik) is presented. The bridge suffered long-term settlement issues due to weak foundation soils and historical loading. Numerical modeling using PLAXIS 2D finite element analysis was conducted to compare conventional backfill with EPS geofoam backfill.

Key findings show that:

• Conventional backfill leads to higher settlement and ongoing deformation.
• EPS geofoam significantly reduces vertical settlement and stabilizes the approach area.
• It lowers stress on foundation soils and reduces erosion and maintenance needs.
• FEM results closely match field observations, validating the model.

In conclusion, the study finds that EPS geofoam is an effective solution for bridge approach settlement problems, improving stability, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing long-term performance of bridge infrastructure.

References

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Copyright © 2026 Thete Prasad B.. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.