# Transition Effects in Bridge Structures and Their Possible Reduction Using Recycled Materials
## 5 Detailed Overview
### Properties and Use of Polymers in Bridge Structures
The effectiveness of soil reinforcement can be increased by using high-strength geosynthetic geogrids, with a tensile strength of up to 1600 kN/m, which vertically absorb, distribute, or dissipate loads onto the soil [66]. Geotextiles for soil reinforcement constitute a kind of mat made from synthetic fibers, usually polypropylene, bonded together in the technological process of their production. It is essential to ensure suitable strength and deformation parameters (ductility) [62]. There are various solutions for constructing embankments using geotextiles. One popular approach involves using geogrids as reinforcements beneath the embankment. This solution increases the soil's bearing capacity and reduces its deformation. Another method involves using geotextiles as a separation layer between different soil layers or as a filtration layer, preventing soil washout from the embankment by water, improving embankment stability and reducing erosion risk. Geotextiles used for embankment reinforcement at abutments cannot act as a diffusion barrier for air and water and must withstand low and high temperatures. They must also resist aggressive compounds (especially bases and acids), fungi, and decay [62]. A comprehensive analysis of geosynthetic reinforcement at the embankment base can be found in [66] and related studies [67; 68; 207; 208; 209; 211; 212; 213; 214; 215; 216; 217; 218; 219; 220; 221; 222; 223]. It focuses on geosynthetic reinforcement in geotechnical structures, specifically the use of geogrids in embankment bases. The work presents results from laboratory tests and numerical analyses aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of using geogrids in reinforcing earth embankment bases. The research findings indicate that employing geogrids in reinforcing soil embankment bases enhances the structure's load-bearing capacity and reduces deformation. The author also compares the costs of using geogrids against traditional reinforcement methods, which can be significant from an economic perspective. The study provides a new perspective on geogrid applications in geotechnics and presents research results that contribute to improving the efficiency and durability of soil structures. All these solutions use geotextiles to improve embankment properties and increase embankment durability. The use of geotextiles in embankment construction is extensively described in the scientific literature and engineering practice, and the choice of a specific solution depends on the soil conditions and design requirements. An interesting application of polymers is their use in epoxy injection for repairing cracks in bridge structures [225]. One of the most intriguing applications can be found in a scientific work concerning an innovative method of reinforcing ground behind abutments using geopolymer injection [226]. This procedure enhances the load-bearing capacity and stiffness, improves embankment and structure cooperation, and enhances durability. It is crucial to relate the above-mentioned aspect to the transition effect. Ensuring the safety of the structural design itself and appropriately designing the connection between the bridge structure and the embankment are significant aspects in the process of bridge construction. Excessive embankment settlements are one of the main causes of failures in this transition zone [227; 228], often leading to numerous damages. Commonly used embankment reinforcement methods mostly rely on soil replacement, subsoil consolidation, mechanical stabilization, vibratory and dynamic methods, deep-seated reinforcements, or the use of geosynthetics [229; 230; 231; 232]. Using typical methods during renovations usually requires dismantling the pavement and conducting extensive earthworks, significantly increasing not only the costs but also hindering the operation of the structure during the works. Geopolymer material injection provides a non-intrusive alternative to traditional substructure work and piling.