Robert Talby presented the Golden Apple to Prof. Thomas D. O'Rourke after the 36th Kapp Lecture

In a captivating presentation to a packed audience, Prof. O'Rourke shared his extensive experience and summarized the key developments in the design and construction of earth retention systems in the past 40 years. During the course of his presentation, he gave a historical perspective on the topic, discussed the importance of ground movement evaluation and monitoring, seismic evaluation, and presented his thoughts on recent and future trends.

At the outset of this presentation, Prof. O'Rourke familiarized his audience with the broad classification of earth retaining systems and how key developments have occurred since the first major conference on the topic was held at Cornell University in 1970 (where he participated he was an undergraduate student). He summarized the major conclusions drawn by him and other experts in the field since that time.

He briefly discussed extreme examples of earth retaining systems, such as the recently completed 150-foot high wall at the Seattle-Tacoma Airport. Next he presented a detailed case history from the Boston Central Artery and Tunnel Project, where a wall was constructed under difficult conditions on soft Boston clay immediately next to a runway at Logan Airport.

Prof. O'Rourke discussed the current status of understanding of the effect of ground movement on structures and reviewed the latest developments in the area of seismic evaluation of retaining structures. Finally, before closing, he posed some intriguing and challenging new possibilities in front of his audience. Among them, he discussed the concept of sustainability in retaining systems, including "Green walls" and geothermal heat exchangers. The other item definitely belonging to the "recent/future trends" category was the concept of LRFD design in retaining systems. Prof. O'Rourke posed interesting questions regarding how design elements, such as allowable movements and temporary supports would be integrated into a possible LRFD approach for retaining systems.

The talk lasted over one hour, but kept the audience captivated with challenging concepts and thought-provoking future possibilities.

Summary and photo by Anirban De