Assessing the deterioration of ageing infrastructure earthworks: The ACHILLES heel in long, linear transport networks

Earthworks (embankments and cuttings) are a major component of the physical infrastructure required to deliver critical transport and energy services over long distances. These earthworks are at various stages of deterioration and require bespoke maintenance, repair or replacement to extend their life. A UK research programme has coupled long-term measurements of earthwork behaviour with novel computer simulations to assess current, and projected deterioration over decadal timescales and in a climate change context.