Why ground improvement is important for geotechnical engineering

 

Geotechnical engineering applies the science of soil and rock mechanics to gather and comprehend the physical qualities of the earth for application in building and construction. Geotechnical engineering is required to assess the ground compatibility of a proposed construction site. If the ground's integrity is discovered to be at risk (i.e., settlement), ground improvement is frequently recommended.

What exactly is a ground improvement?

Before any construction project can begin, the soil site must be examined to ensure that it can withstand and appropriately support the building structure. In some circumstances, the planned building site may be comprised of saturated compressible materials that are unsuitable for construction; in this scenario, ground enhancement techniques can be used.

Why is it necessary?

Building on untested soft, uneven ground is a formula for disaster. It might cause structural issues with the structure itself, forcing costly repairs or perhaps total demolition later on. A solid plan produced by a skilled geotechnical engineer decreases the danger of future damage and flaws greatly.

Other advantages of ground improvement

Furthermore, ground improvement is critical to geotechnical engineering since it raises the density of the soil, preventing liquefaction. When loosely packed, water-logged sediments near the ground's surface weaken in reaction to severe vibrations, such as earthquakes, this is referred to as liquefaction. Simultaneously, ground renovation may increase soil permeability, which increases drainage capabilities.

What kinds of ground improvement techniques are available?

The suggested technique will be determined by the project, the area in question, and the type of soil and natural components that make up the land in question. Clay, boulders, and sandy soil, for example, will behave differently when exposed to different methods of ground improvement. Some popular ground improvement methods are listed below.

Dynamic compaction

This method compresses the soil by releasing enormous steel rigs from a particular height, often between forty and eighty feet. This approach effectively compresses loose soils in problem locations. Following the completion of compacting, the ground area is dug out to process and reinstall engineered fill. This technique ensures that the ground is properly compacted and hard enough to build on successfully.

Jet grouting

This soil improvement building approach employs a jet system that uses a high-pressure mechanism to release soil cement into the earth. As a result of this process, cement grout is mixed with the soil at the same time, reducing soil permeability while increasing soil strength. The new soil cement dries, solidifies, and settles into the hardened, more equal ground that provides better support. It also gives for the possibility of raising foundations and slab elements if necessary.

BRS Building Services is a geotechnical engineering firm that can conduct essential surveys and work to ensure the success of any construction project. Please contact us right away to see how we can assist you.