Ground Improvement

Techniques
Course

1.Introduction
definition
scope
Objective
Types
2.0 Hydraulic modification
Dewatering
Preloading
3.0 Mechanical modification
Shallow compaction
Deep Compaction
4.0 Physical Modification (stabilization of soil)
Using course or fines
cement modification
Lime modification
Bitumen Modification
5.0 inclusion and Confinement of soil
Grouting
Ground Freezing
Stone Column
Application of geosynthetic
reinforced earth
GIT

why?
 Definition of Ground
Improvement
Ground treatment is the controlled alteration of the
state, nature or mass behaviour of ground materials
in order to achieve an intended satisfactory response to
existing or projected environmental and engineering
actions.
 Main Improvement Techniques:
temporary
e.g. dewatering or ground freezing, where
the improvement is only during the
application
short-term
e.g. some forms of grouting, or use of
diaphragm walls for ease of construction
with longer term benefits
long-term
e.g. soil nailing, vibro-replacement, curtain
grouting of a dam, where the treatment is
integral to the permanent works.
 advantages
Reduction and control of deformation & settlement

Reduction, control and exclusion of groundwater to aid

safety and buildability

Reduction of susceptibility to erosion and improving life-

span.

Increase shear strength, bearing capacity

Increase volume stability i.e. reduction in shrinkage and

swelling potential of soil

Reduce permeability i.e. water loss in dam reservoir, canal

Reduce liquefaction potential

Effect on the Ground
Change of state;
i.e. the same ground but made stronger,
stiffer, denser, more durable
Change of nature;
i.e. the ground becomes a different
material by inclusion of other materials
Change of response;
i.e. through the incorporation of other
materials, the ground becomes a composite
material with enhanced load-carrying or
deformation characteristics.
Main Improvement Techniques:

by vibration
by adding load
by structural reinforcement
by structural fill
by admixtures
by grouting
by specialist dewatering
 = Main benefit
= Secondary Benefit
benefit

Higher Less/ more Faster Ground water Reduced Increased Improved

Technique Bearing Even Settlement control Liquefaction Erosion slope / face
Capacity settlement potential resistance stability
Vibro-replacement

Dynamic Compaction

Pre compression

Vertical Drainage

Reinforcing soil / soil
nailing
Structural fill

Lime/cement admixture

Permeation grouting

Cavity grouting

Ground freezing

Slurry cut off trench &
pumping
 Dynamic Compaction
Plant

Specialist Rig to
reduce noise and
environmental
stone column
Importance:

Due to the scarcity of land ,best site selection is being

quite difficult so the new theme of engineering is,
accept the site whatever the condition but change the
condition, properties such that it can meet the ideal
requirement for proposed structure.
Change mind for better engineering

For better performance

For longer life span of structure
For higher safety under worse situation too
To replace heavy and deeper foundation by small or
shallow one

Adopt new idea because engineer are for changes and

efficient construction in this beautiful world not for
classical approach and thumb rule continuation.