What is the term for the layer of soil surrounding a gas pipeline?

The correct term for the layer of soil surrounding a gas pipeline is backfill. Backfill refers to the material used to refill an excavated trench after the pipeline has been laid, ensuring that the pipe is properly covered and supported. This layer is crucial because it provides the necessary stability and protection for the pipeline, helping to prevent damage from surface loads and external elements.

Understanding backfill is essential in excavation and grading practices, as it affects not only the structural integrity of the pipeline but also the overall safety of the area around it. Backfilling often involves specific techniques to ensure proper compaction and to reduce the risk of settling, which can cause issues later on.

The other terms mentioned do not accurately describe this layer; lift relates to individual layers of material placed during the construction process, buffer zone usually refers to an area designated to reduce environmental impact rather than specifically a layer of soil, and stabilizing layer generally pertains to a layer that enhances soil strength but does not specifically denote the soil surrounding a pipeline.