Tensar Receives NCDOT Approval for ARES, Mesa Retaining Walls Words: Dan Kamys Tensar Receives NCDOT Approval for ARES, Mesa Retaining Walls ?? Tensar International, a geosynthetic soil reinforcement and stabilization company, has received full approval with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) for its ARES and Mesa Retaining Wall Systems. As of Jan. 31, 2011, the NCDOT required that companies submit and receive approval to build mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls based on the Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) design methodology. The Mesa Systems previously had full approval with the NCDOT. Both the ARES and Mesa Systems are now updated to meet the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications latest design requirements. Tensar has also received approvals in other states for their products. Recent approvals include: ?? California’s CalTrans approved Mesa Systems under new LRFD design methodology ?? The Ohio DOT approved Tensar’s UX geogrid design strength for ARES walls ?? The New Jersey DOT uses ARES Systems for true bridge abutment ?? The Maryland State Highway Administration approved ARES Systems precast panel wall MSE syste. The inert properties of Tensar Geogrids permit the use of a wide range of backfills, including recycled materials and those not suitable to be used with steel-reinforced wall systems, allowing contractors to save time and labor costs when installing the ARES Systems. For more information, visit http://www.tensarcorp.com.