Alchatek Blog

Have you ever noticed shallow, pond-like formations on the surface of roads, particularly in private neighborhoods, subdivisions, or parking lots? These are known as "bird baths" in the road surface, and they're more than just a quirk of the road. They signify deeper issues in road maintenance and safety that are crucial to address.

What are Bird Baths in Road Pavement?

Bird baths are small depressions in the road surface where water accumulates. Unlike potholes, bird baths are shallower and often wider, resembling a natural birdbath. They typically form in areas where the pavement has sunk or where water is unable to drain properly. These features are commonly seen in areas with lower traffic, like private neighborhoods and parking lots, where regular maintenance may not be as common.

Causes and Consequences

The primary causes of bird baths in pavement include tire ruts from repetitive vehicle traffic and insufficient soil compaction during road construction. Over time, the weight of vehicles passing over the same spot causes the pavement to deform, creating these depressions. Additionally, if the underlying soil was not compacted properly, it can settle unevenly, leading to surface irregularities.

The presence of bird baths is not merely a cosmetic issue. They can pose significant trip hazards for pedestrians, especially when hidden by water or ice. For vehicles, these depressions can lead to uncomfortable rides and, in some cases, damage to the vehicle itself. In winter, bird baths can be particularly dangerous as they form ice patches, posing a risk for both vehicles and pedestrians. Furthermore, they can also cause problems for snowplows, leading to inefficient snow removal and additional road wear.

Road Pavement Birth Baths

Understanding the causes and effects of bird baths in road pavement is crucial for effective road maintenance and safety. Addressing these issues not only improves the longevity of the pavement but also ensures a safer environment for all road users. The next part of the series will delve into bird bath repair methods, focusing on innovative techniques offering long-lasting solutions, such as the Deep Lock ® process.

Want more information about the Deep Lock® process?

If you're a contractor grappling with deep soil stabilization challenges or looking to expand service offerings, Alchatek offers comprehensive support and training to elevate skills and expand business opportunities. Here's how the Alchatek team can assist you in enhancing your Deep Lock® soil stabilization capabilities:

Skill Upgrades for Contractors

• If you're currently facing difficulties with deep soil stabilization projects, Alchatek provides the expertise to upgrade your skills and tackle these challenges effectively.
• For slab lifting contractors, incorporating the Deep Lock® process into your service offerings can be a significant step towards diversifying your business and increasing revenue.

Technical Guidance and Support

• Alchatek's technical support team is highly skilled in on-the-job applications of deep soil stabilization techniques.
• The team brings a wealth of experience, having successfully consulted on a wide range of projects.
• On-the-job training is available, offering practical, hands-on learning to ensure you are fully equipped to handle various stabilization scenarios.

Comprehensive Training Programs

• Alchatek offers training programs, which are designed to provide in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in the latest soil stabilization techniques.
• Training programs are an excellent opportunity for contractors to learn directly from experts and gain valuable insights into the industry’s best practices.

Collaboration with Engineers

• Alchatek assists contractors in working with engineers. This includes providing education and specification assistance to ensure that engineers are well-informed about the Deep Lock® process and its benefits.
• The support team can help bridge the gap between contractors and engineers, facilitating smoother project execution.

Project Design Support

• This service ensures that your deep soil stabilization projects are well-planned, efficient, and effective.
• Alchatek experts can help you design your projects from the ground up, ensuring the best possible outcomes for your clients.

Contact Alchatek Today

If you’re looking to enhance your deep soil stabilization services or need expert assistance, reach out to Alchatek today. With comprehensive support, training, and vast experience, you can confidently tackle any soil stabilization challenge and grow your business.

Call 404-618-0438 or fill out this form to contact Alchatek now!

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

This post features three case studies that highlight the versatility and effectiveness of the Deep Lock® process across a variety of applications.

Deep Soil Stabilization at a Shopping Center

• Location: City Creek Center, Salt Lake City.
• Problem: A trench filled with pea gravel began settling, affecting underground power lines.
• Solution: The trench was stabilized using structural polymers.
• Process: An Alchatek consultant developed an injection plan, and the geotech crew installed 10 injection tubes 30 feet deep, pumping approximately 1 gallon per vertical foot.
• Outcome: The site work was completed in just two days, allowing for the rapid continuation of the construction work.

Deep Soil Stabilization for New Construction

• Location: A commercial construction site.
• Problem: The need to stabilize gravel and soil held in place by sheet pile panels between the panels and the foundation.
• Solution: Structural polymers were used due to their ability to permeate soil and encapsulate gravel into a solid mass.
• Process: The crew injected the polymer to a depth of about 12 feet, grouting to refusal, ensuring the entire layer of soil and gravel was locked in place.
• Outcome: The stabilized soil and gravel provided a solid supportive wall for the foundation when the sheet piles were removed, and the gap filled with cement.

Deep Soil Stabilization at a Two-Story House

• Location: A two-story house in North Carolina, built on poorly compacted fill dirt.
• Problem: The house showed signs of settling, with interior cracks and uneven floors.
• Solution: A structural foam was used for its high-strength, hydro-insensitive properties, ideal for densifying soil and stabilizing foundations.
• Process: 18 injection tubes were installed to depths of 7 feet and 3.5 feet, injecting foam beneath exterior footings and load-bearing interior walls.
• Outcome: The stabilization process not only densified the soil and stopped the settlement but also achieved a half-inch lift both from exterior and interior injections, impressing both the customer and the engineer.

These case studies demonstrate the adaptability and effectiveness of the Deep Lock® process in addressing diverse soil stabilization challenges. From commercial construction sites to residential properties, Deep Lock® provides a reliable and efficient solution for soil stabilization needs.

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

In the world of soil stabilization and concrete leveling, the choice of materials is as important as the technique used. Alchatek's Deep Lock® process utilizes a range of specialized structural polymers, each designed to cater to specific stabilization needs.

Structural Polymers for Deep Stabilization

Here's an overview of the key polymers used in the Deep Lock® process:

• AP Lift 430:
  This polyurethane foam is adequate for the vast majority of deep soil stabilization jobs. AP Lift 430 is known for its versatility and reliability, making it a go-to choice for standard deep stabilization tasks. It provides a strong, stable, and durable solution for most soil types and conditions.
  
  
• AP Lift 440:
  AP Lift 440 is formulated for jobs where the soil supports structures larger than a single-story house.  This foam supports a bit more weight compared to AP Lift 430, making it suitable for heavier and more demanding applications. It's ideal for projects that require additional strength and stability, particularly in supporting larger buildings or heavier structures.
  
  
• AP Deep Lift 420:
  This is a specialized polyurethane foam used in scenarios where a slight lift is required along with deep soil stabilization. AP Deep Lift 420 is designed to offer slight lifting, soil stabilization, and void-filling capabilities, making it an excellent choice for projects where minor elevation adjustments are necessary along with stabilization. Its unique formulation allows it to address both settlement issues and provide additional support to the foundation or structure.

Technical Support for Product Selection:

Choosing the right polyurethane foam for a specific project can be a complex decision. Alchatek’s technical team is available to assist contractors in selecting the most suitable product for their specific needs. With in-depth knowledge of each product’s properties and the varying demands of different stabilization scenarios, the tech team can provide valuable guidance. This ensures that the chosen foam perfectly aligns with the project requirements, soil conditions, and the desired outcome.

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

The Deep Lock® process, a robust and effective method for soil stabilization, requires specialized equipment to ensure precision and efficiency. Here's a breakdown of essential equipment for Deep Lock® soil stabilization in cold weather:

• PMC PH2 Hydraulic Proportioner (or Equivalent):
  Used to inject two-component structural polyurethane foams for Deep Lock® soil stabilization, as well as void filling and slab lifting. The PMC PH2 Hydraulic Proportioner is known for its durability and reliability, using relays and circuit breakers instead of circuit boards to enhance reliability and reduce maintenance issues.
  
  
• MixMaster Pro Injection Gun:
  Specifically manufactured for injecting two-component structural polymers, the MixMaster Pro is designed to handle back pressure effectively.
  
  
• Drum Heaters:
  Drum heaters are employed to maintain the temperature of the materials in 50-gallon drums, ensuring proper viscosity and preventing freezing.
  
  
• Space Heater:
  Utilized to maintain an optimal working temperature in the rig, especially crucial in colder environments.
  
  
• Hilti TE 60 Drill (or Equivalent):
  A powerful drill is essential for creating the necessary openings in the soil for the ground rods.
  
  
• 36-64” Drill Bit:
  Strong enough to penetrate through frozen surfaces, this drill bit is essential.
  
  
• 16-18 Gauge Half Inch Ground Rod Tubing – 10 Foot Sticks:
  These ground rod tubing sticks are integral for the precise delivery of materials during the stabilization process.
  
  
• Ground Rod Driver:
  This tool is used for driving ground rods into the earth. It facilitates the installation of ground rods, making the process safer and faster.
  
  
• Rotary Level and Receivers:
  These tools are vital for measuring surface levels. The rotary level emits a rotating laser beam to create a horizontal plane, while the receiver detects the laser beam over long distances, ensuring accuracy and precision in the stabilization and – if necessary – lifting process.

Each piece of equipment plays a critical role in the Deep Lock® process, ensuring that the soil stabilization and concrete leveling tasks are performed efficiently, accurately, and safely, even in challenging weather conditions. Employing the right tools not only enhances the effectiveness of the process but also contributes to the longevity and stability of the treated structures.

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

Deep Lock® is a specialized deep soil stabilization process developed by Alchatek. It involves injecting a structural polymer deep into the soil, where it expands and solidifies. This process enhances the stability and strength of the soil, making it an effective solution for various geotechnical challenges. One key feature of Deep Lock® is its ability to stabilize soil below the freeze/thaw line, making it particularly useful in cold weather conditions.

Applications of Deep Lock® in Cold Weather

• Foundations: Deep Lock® is extensively used to stabilize and strengthen foundations, especially in areas where the soil is compromised due to moisture or other factors.
  
  
• Under Sunken Slabs: For sunken slabs, where soil erosion or voids have occurred deeper down, Deep Lock® provides an effective solution to fill and stabilize these gaps.
  
  
• Settling Structures: Entire structures that are settling, not just the slab, can benefit from the deep soil stabilization offered by Deep Lock®.
  
  
• Interior Footings: In scenarios where exterior piers are used for stabilization, Deep Lock® can be employed for interior footings, avoiding damage to floors and providing a balanced stabilization approach.
  
  
• Brick and Stone Foundations: These types of foundations, which are challenging to stabilize with piers, can be effectively supported using the Deep Lock® process.
  
  
• Pre-construction Soil Stabilization: Before construction begins, stabilizing the soil ensures that the foundation rests on solid ground, a crucial step for long-term structural integrity.
  
  
• Culverts: Deep Lock® can be used for stabilizing and sealing culverts both from the outside (probe-grouting style) and from the inside by injecting the polymer just below the steel.

Why Deep Lock® is Used in Cold Weather

Cold Weather Performance: Deep Lock® can be performed even when the top layer of soil is frozen, making it ideal for cold weather applications.

• Addressing the Root Cause: By stabilizing soil deep below the surface, Deep Lock® addresses the underlying causes of structural problems rather than just the symptoms.
  
  
• Preventing Resettlement: It ensures that once slabs or structures are stabilized, they remain in place without resettling.
  
  
• Warranty Benefits: When employing the Deep Lock® process, contractors can offer better warranties due to effective and long-lasting stabilization.
  
  
• Ease of Process: The process is relatively easy to learn and implement, making it a practical option for a wide variety of contractors.

Deep Lock® offers a versatile and effective solution for a range of soil stabilization needs, particularly beneficial in cold weather conditions. Its ability to work below the freeze/thaw line and address deep-rooted soil issues makes it an invaluable tool in the geotechnical contractor’s arsenal.

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

Unstable soils present significant challenges in civil engineering projects. Whether caused by erosion, improper compaction, freeze-thaw action, or decay of buried organic matter, loose and shifting soils undermine structural integrity. Together, these mechanisms prevent soil from remaining firmly in place. This necessitates methods to stabilize and strengthen the matrix. Geotechnical engineers must find solutions to reinforce the substrate and restore load-bearing capacity.

Polymer injection grouting offers an innovative approach, transforming loose soil into a strong, consolidated mass. These polymeric resins permeate porous soils and compact denser soils, then expand and cure in place. The resulting soil-polymer matrix has high compressive strength, stopping subsidence, erosion, and migration of fines. Alchatek's standard soil stabilization products and deep soil stabilization products provide specification-grade stabilization.

Polymer Foam Stabilization Mechanisms

• Permeation of loose sediments, gluing them into a firm matrix
• Displacement of water from eroded zones, reversing further erosion
• Filling of void spaces from decayed organics or poor compaction
• Adhesion to soil particles creates a strong substrate

Additionally, these foams are NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 certified for contact with potable water supplies. This enables environmentally safe use.

Performance Characteristics

Polymeric foams provide exceptional soil stabilization and foundational reinforcement. Key advantages include:

• Ability to permeate and treat loose or unstable soils in situ without excavation
• Ability to compact dense soils such as clay
• High compressive and shear strength, restoring structural load capacity
• Permanent stabilization without ongoing maintenance requirements
• Mitigation of subsidence or erosion with bonded soil matrix

When applied correctly, polymeric foams offer lasting soil stabilization and ground improvement. Alchatek case studies document successful performance for applications including commercial, industrial, new construction, and other geotechnical engineering projects.

Additional Guidance for Geotechnical Engineers

Specify these advanced soil grouting products to permanently resolve instability issues. They deliver rapid installation, minimal invasive work, and results that last. Let us provide guidance on product selection, specs, and installation techniques for your next soil stabilization project. Polymer grouting is an innovative, low-impact way to reinforce unstable ground.

For more information on geotechnical repair products...

As a geotechnical engineer, you understand the importance of stable supporting soil around structures. When the supporting soil becomes unstable, the stability of the structure is at risk. Common causes of unstable soil include erosion, poor compaction, freeze/thaw cycles, and decomposition of organic materials within the soil. Fortunately, soil can be stabilized with high-strength polyurethane. Whether you need a product recommendation for soil stabilization specs, or you're seeking accredited continuing education on this subject, Alchatek has you covered.

Product Recommendations for Soil Stabilization Specs

Experienced members of the Alchatek technical support team consult with engineers on a regular basis. When you call for assistance, you'll be connected to someone with extensive product knowledge and years of on-the-job experience out in the field. If you need a product recommendation for polyurethane soil stabilization specifications, call 404-618-0438 and ask for a geotechnical expert. 

Accredited Presentations

Alchatek offers one-hour CE/PDH accredited presentations on a variety of subjects, including geotechnical applications for polyurethane. These presentations are available online via videoconferencing or in person in a lunch-and-learn context. Geotechnical presentations are always given by an experienced expert who can field pretty much any question your team may have on the subject.

Click the button below and fill out the form to request an accredited presentation.

Alchatek offers a series of short educational videos covering a variety of polyurethane concrete repair applications. Each video is described below, followed by a viewing link.

Slab Lifting with Polyurethane Foam

This live-action video depicts a typical residential driveway slab lifting job, including a simple overview of the causes of settled slabs, the alternatives to polyurethane slab lifting, and the polyurethane slab lifting process itself. The slab lifting sequence features added 3D animation to show the foam expansion process underground during the slab lifting process. Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Slab Lift Process Explained

This animated video explains the polyurethane slab lift process in detail, primarily in the context of commercial/industrial applications. Sunken concrete slabs can be lifted back into place with two-component polymer foam designed to work in wet or dry conditions. The expansion force of the concrete leveling foam coupled with the pressure of a specialized pump generate enough controlled force to lift virtually any structure back into position with 1/8” precision.  Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Soil Stabilization Process Explained

This animated video explains the most common infrastructure and concrete issues requiring polyurethane soil stabilization, as well as the application process itself. Unstable, eroded, or loose soil around infrastructure can result in settlement and damage to the structure. Voids can be filled, soil consolidated, and water migration halted by permeating the soil with one of the AP Soil series of polyurethane resins. Click here to watch the video.

The Deep Lock® Process Explained

This animated video explains deep soil stabilization in great detail. Alchatek offers a unique combination of high-quality structural polymers along with the equipment and training needed to address deep soil issues. Contractors trained in The Deep Lock® process can stabilize soil at all levels and accomplish this with minimal imposition to or downtime for the property owner. Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Leak Seal Process Explained

This animated video explains the most common infrastructure and concrete issues requiring polyurethane leak seal solutions, as well as the various application processes. Leaking concrete can be detrimental to safety and property values. Leaks in concrete structures can be permanently repaired with water-activated polyurethane and a few assorted leak seal accessories. Click here to watch the video.

Alchatek - A Supplier You Can Trust

This video provides a quick overview of Alchatek, an international leader in the manufacture and supply of chemical grouts and construction products for Geotechnical, Leak Seal, and Seawall Repair applications. Providing solutions from its headquarters in Tucker, Georgia, and its manufacturing facility in Reno, Nevada, Alchatek specializes in advanced construction technologies for sealing leaks, stabilizing soils, lifting concrete, and protecting infrastructure and seawall structures. Click here to watch the video.

Want more information on geotech and leak seal products and equipment?

Deep Lock® Overview

Solid soil is crucial for the long-term stability of concrete structures. Unfortunately, erosion often puts this stability at risk. When erosion occurs just underneath the structure, standard polyurethane soil stabilization methods are often the perfect solution.

Sometimes, however, erosion occurs deep within the soil. Alchatek's Deep Lock® polyurethane soil stabilization process is a unique and powerful solution for deep soil instability issues. This process involves the deep injection of high-quality structural polymers to address the problem with minimal heavy equipment and downtime. The Deep Lock® process addresses the root cause of deep soil problems. 

Deep Lock® Products

AP Deep Lift 420

AP Lift 430

AP Lift 440

AP Lift 475

Deep Look GPR

Dynamic Cone Penetrometer

Alchatek's industry-leading technical support team is thoroughly versed in the art and science of stabilizing soil. Call us today at 404-618-0438 for assistance with your next deep soil stabilization project.

Want more information on geotech products and equipment?