Excavating near existing structures, particularly in zero lot line scenarios like building additions, poses unique challenges. Traditional methods like sheet piling, while effective, can cause issues such as adjacent structure disruption, soil settlement, and excessive noise, making them less ideal in dense, urban environments.
Polyurethane Grout Walls
The use of polyurethane grout walls, composed of interlocking columns, offers a more suitable solution. This method involves injecting a single component, like AP Soil 600, into non-cohesive soil, creating a stable barrier that supports the excavation site without affecting the adjacent structure.
The Advantages of Polyurethane in Non-Cohesive Soils
In non-cohesive, loose soils, polyurethane grout walls provide several benefits:
- Reduced Structural Impact: They minimize the risk of damaging nearby structures.
- Lower Noise Levels Compared to Sheet Piling: The installation of polyurethane grout walls is significantly quieter than the installation of sheet piles.
- Soil Stability: Polyurethane enhances soil stability, ensuring safety during and after excavation.
This approach is not suitable for more cohesive soils in which the installation of grout columns is not possible, emphasizing the need for careful soil assessment beforehand. This installation of grout walls to stabilize adjacent structures during excavation is a more precise and less invasive alternative to traditional methods.
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