BioMaterials

The study area lies on the southern side of the sandy ridge on which the historic center of Castignano stands, immediately uphill from the arched retaining wall supporting the southern slope of the sandy cliff. The cliff supporting the historic center of Castignano consists of Lower-to-Middle Pliocene sandstone turbidites, represented by well-stratified sands, with clay layers mainly located in the lower part of the formation. The slope stability conditions are influenced by the degree of weathering of the sandy layers. Except for the outer surface band, which has an average thickness of about 2. 0 m, these materials are highly compact and partially cemented and therefore generally ensure stable equilibrium conditions. The weathering action caused by exogenous agents, particularly effective along the middle-to-upper section of the slope that is not protected by the retaining wall, has led to the deterioration of the outer sandy formation, resulting in the development of eroded and fractured wedges in precarious equilibrium conditions. Due to the steep slope gradient and the tectonic characteristics of the area, the ongoing instability develops through two main phenomena: the retreat of the upper edge of the slope, with frequent collapses of portions of it, and the fall of rocks and debris onto the road below, posing a clear risk to people and property. This phenomenon endangers the infrastructure and buildings of the historic center, which are located directly along the edge of the slope.

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OceanaGold (Philippines), Inc. owns and operates the high-grade gold and copper Didipio mining project bounded by the provinces of Quirino and Nueva Vizcaya, about 270 km north of Manila, Philippines. Prior to opening the site for operation, construction of a 24-kilometer access road was required. Large portions of mountain slopes were cut for the said purpose. The cut slopes, when exposed to rain, were prone to erosion. Immediate prevention was required to address the problem.

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The Museum of the Future (MOTF) is a unique initiative by the Dubai government that explores the future of science, technology, and innovation and will be located at a prime spot in Sheikh Zayed Road and near the Burj Khalifa. The architect ‘Kila’ designed MOTF in three main parts: the lower green hill, the upper building, and the elliptical void, representing earth, mankind & innovation, respectively. The inspiration for the green hill was also to elevate the building calmly and unobtrusively above the metro line and create greenery in elevation where visitors can enjoy while engaging with the Museum. The green hill is to be done through a smooth transition from the site as an earthen, vegetated mound with a minimal visible built intervention. A three-story podium structure will be embedded inside the green hill, which will house the lobby, auditorium, cafés, restaurants, retail, car parking, etc. For the aforementioned reasons, the vegetated mount must be done as a THIN CLADDING of varying slopes rather than a solid earth hill.

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