Shored MSE structures (SMSE) are now widely sought by engineers that are challenged to widen or rehabilitate existing infrastructure.

Our innovative solution is TerraLink, developed by Geoquest, this solution solves these challenges to build new earth-retained structures that front existing structures where limited room for expansion is available.

Geoquest engineers have pioneered this innovative solution to link a new structure to an existing structure. With TerraLink, you can build widenings or additions to link an added structure to the face of a soil-nail wall, an existing concrete retaining wall, or a natural feature such as sloped terrain that are allowing only a narrow space for the necessary soil reinforcements and backfill.

Space constraints

Infrastructure widening and rehabilitation

Costs and environmental impact reduction

Road and railway widenings

The continuous increase in road and railway traffic in urban areas renders existing infrastructure as under-dimensioned. Infrastructure widening with structure additions using our TerraLink SMSE solution is necessary to loosen traffic bottlenecks and stabilize existing structures.

Earth shoring

TerraLink is a cost-effective way for building a conventional earth-retained structure or shoring system in restrictive proximity to an existing slope or structure. Typical design conceptions involve significant earthwork through excavation and excessive fill, and replacements. By lowering these high costs, TerraLink is an excellent solution.

The TerraLink solution

Components resemble our typical Reinforced Earth MSE wall solution:

  • Facing panels that can be made of precast concrete or welded wire mesh
  • Steel or geosynthetic soil reinforcement strips that are connected to the facing elements
  • Select or engineered backfill
  • We also supply TerraNail soil nails that are naturally associated with TerraLink

The TerraLink connections

Our solution is intended to link an existing structure with the new TerraLink structure. These structures are designed with either one, or a combination of two different methods for linking:

  • Friction link

Alternating layers of soil reinforcements, each layer connected to one or the opposing surface

  • those being solely connected to the back face of the new structure
  • those being solely connected to the face of the existing structure.
  • Direct link

All soil reinforcement connecting the two extremities are structurally linked directly to one another.

One or both, friction-link or direct-link connections could apply to your project.

Design approach

Key in designing the TerraLink configuration, Geoquest engineers will assess the conditions of the existing structure(s). We closely analyze the origin (existing MSE, soil nail wall, sloped terrain, bedrock, etc.), as it is important to evaluate the stability of the as-built environment. We consult with you on internal and external stability in support of the new, reconfigured structure, including revised load conditions and extended service life.

Our solutions allows:

Space optimization

Works in tight areas without requiring large backfill or reinforcement zones.

Cost efficiency

Reduces excavation, material use, and overall construction expenses.

Environmental sustainability

Minimizes land disturbance and lowers ecological impact compared to traditional methods.

Structural reliability

Ensures stability and durability for infrastructure upgrades and expansions.

Faster project delivery

Simplifies construction processes, enabling quicker completion with less disruption.

Our solutions suit severall applications to: RetainCrossProtectStrengthen

Reinforced Earth solutions

Discover Geoquest solutions in: Reinforced EarthPrecastGeosyntheticsGeohazardsCorrugated steel