A multi-scale physical approach to investigate the effectiveness of a nature-based solution for mitigating backward erosion piping
A multi-scale physical approach to investigate the effectiveness of a nature-based solution for mitigating backward erosion piping
Backward erosion piping is a form of internal erosion that may develop in the foundations of river embankments, due to underseepage. At the ground surface, near the landside toe, this phenomenon typically manifests as sand volcanoes, commonly known as sand boils. The widespread occurrence of the phenomenon in many river embankment systems worldwide (e.g., Po and Danube rivers) highlights the need for effective and sustainable countermeasures. Within the framework of the European LIFE SandBoil project, coordinated by the University of Bologna, a multi-scale experimental programme was envisaged and carried out to validate a nature-based mitigation measure. The investigation began with small-scale laboratory tests, aimed at reproducing the progression of pipes and assessing the effectiveness of vertical pervious barriers as a mitigation technology. This was followed by medium-scale physical modelling, which provided further insights into piping dynamics, under more realistic boundary conditions. Finally, a full-scale experimental setup was recently built at the AIPo Research Centre, located in Boretto (Northern Italy), with the aim of validating the performance of the mitigation solution, prior to implementation in real river embankments. This paper presents the multi-scale experimental physical modelling setups developed within the project, as part of the prototyping activities. The proposed approach is intended to provide a contribution to the enhancement of the resilience of river embankment systems worldwide.
E. Dodaro; Emanuele Tumedei; Michela Marchi; Guido Gottardi; Laura Tonni
11th International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics (ICPMG2026)
Special Session 8: Nature-based solution for sustainable geotechnical systems
https://doi.org/10.53243/ICPMG2026-416