Alchatek Blog

Essential Details

Dates/Pricing

Geotechnical Masterclass: November 12th-14th, 2024 – $695.00
(Special pricing for all who register before the end of September. $745 October 1st and later.)

Location

To Be Determined
(in Georgia)

Discount

$50 discount for each additional participant.

Geotechnical Masterclass

Elevate your geotechnical expertise with our comprehensive masterclass covering cutting-edge techniques and solutions. Master:

• Polyurethane Concrete Leveling for sunken slabs
• Polyurethane Soil Stabilization for various soil types
• Geotechnical Testing with precision
• Deep Lock® soil stabilization procedures

Why Attend?

• Gain Hands-On Experience with state-of-the-art equipment
• Learn From Industry-Leading Experts with decades of experience
• Network with Peers and potential collaborators
• Boost Your Company’s Market Reach and capabilities

Consider the low cost of training vs. the high cost of job screw-ups and missed opportunities.

Transitioning from routine geotechnical work to more complex and high-stakes infrastructure and large-scale construction projects represents a significant growth opportunity for your career and business. Get the advanced skills and critical insights needed to tackle challenging projects and succeed in competitive markets confidently.

Join us for this transformative Geotechnical Masterclass. We’ll equip you with the knowledge and techniques to excel across all geotechnical project types.

Administrators at Orange County, Florida Public Works had a pressing issue. Settlement was occurring along a quarter-mile stretch of a three-lane roadway. The culprit? Loose, sandy soils combined with a high water table. Before repaving could begin, stabilizing the supporting soil was crucial. This case study explores how the problem was addressed and resolved. This project showcases innovative solutions for common infrastructure challenges in areas with problematic soil conditions.

Powerful Polymers

AP Fill 700 was selected as the repair material for this project. Its low viscosity allowed for effective soil permeation, and its curing strength promised to create a permanent soil mass. These properties made AP Fill 700 the perfect choice for stabilizing the loose soil beneath the roadway. The selection of this material demonstrated the importance of choosing the right product for specific geotechnical challenges. AP Fill 700's unique characteristics ensured a robust and long-lasting solution.

Painless Procedures

A methodical approach was essential for this project. First, a large grid pattern for injections was carefully planned out. Each injection point was spaced five feet apart, and the depth of each injection reached approximately 15 feet. At each point, one gallon of material was injected per vertical foot. This systematic process ensured thorough coverage and stabilization of the problematic soil. The precise spacing and depth of injections were critical factors in the project's success. By following this detailed procedure, the team could address the soil instability comprehensively.

Rapid Results

This massive project was completed in about a week. As a result, the once-loose soil was successfully stabilized. The municipality now had a solid foundation to repave the quarter-mile stretch of road. In the end, Orange County Public Works had effectively addressed the settlement issue. The roadway was now ready for safe, long-lasting resurfacing. This efficient resolution solved the immediate problem and prevented potential future issues. The success of this project demonstrated the effectiveness of proactive infrastructure maintenance and the value of employing advanced soil stabilization techniques.

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

In Salt Lake City, Utah, a historic brick structure built in 1893 showed signs of foundation settlement. The building's sandstone foundation presented a challenge. Traditional stabilization methods like installing helical piers could potentially cause further damage. Rhino Foundation Systems proposed a solution using polyurethane foam to stabilize the foundation. This case study examines how this approach addressed the building's foundation problems.

Powerful Polymers

The technicians selected AP Lift 430 polyurethane foam for the project. This foam was chosen for its ideal soil stabilization and structural support properties. The plan involved injecting the foam beneath the footings to provide a stable support platform. This method would achieve the desired stabilization without requiring extensive excavation.

Painless Procedures

The project began with a detailed site assessment to understand the extent of the settlement and soil conditions. Following this, the team designed a plan to install 63 deep foam injections under the foundation, ensuring comprehensive coverage and stabilization. Specialized equipment was then used to perform these deep injections, with the foam strategically placed to improve the soil and stabilize the foundation.

Rapid Results

The project delivered several key benefits. Deep foam injections improved the soil and provided a strong platform for the foundation, ensuring effective stabilization. The non-invasive process precluded the need for extensive excavation, preserving the structure and minimizing disruption. Notably, the project was completed in just two days, significantly reducing downtime and disturbance to the area. Finally, the polyurethane foam injections offered a cost-effective solution compared to traditional stabilization methods, making it an economically viable option for similar foundation challenges.

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

The management team at a community pool in Midvale, Utah, faced a significant challenge. A water leak had saturated the silty soil beneath the structure, causing uneven settlement and safety hazards. To address this issue, they brought in geotechnical specialists from Rhino Foundation Systems, who proposed an innovative solution as an alternative to tearing out and replacing the pool. This approach not only promised to stabilize the pool but also lift it back to its proper position.

Powerful Polymers

The key to this solution was Alchatek's AP Lift 440 polyurethane foam. This powerful polymer was chosen for its soil stabilization, load-bearing, and lifting capabilities. Deep soil injections were planned to address the underlying issues. The foam's expanding properties would displace water and stabilize the soil base. This method offered a non-invasive alternative to traditional approaches like helical piles.

Painless Procedures

The process began with a thorough site assessment. The technicians analyzed soil saturation and settlement patterns. Based on this data, a 3-foot by 5-foot injection grid was designed. Next, holes were drilled through the bottom of the pool, and injection rods were installed. AP Lift 440 was injected beneath the structure. As a result, the expanding foam displaced water and stabilized the soil base. Following this, the pool was lifted by 3.5 inches. Finally, the pool deck was adjusted to match the new level.

Rapid Results

The pool was successfully stabilized and leveled with minimal disruption. Moreover, there was no need for extensive excavation. This method proved to be both effective and efficient. The foam injections effectively displaced water and stabilized the soil. Additionally, the lifting process was precise, raising the pool by exactly 3.5 inches. Perhaps most importantly, this solution was cost-effective. It proved quicker and more economical than complete pool replacement.

Want more information about lifting and stabilization with polyurethane?

Manhole infiltration can pose serious risks to nearby structures. In a recent case, water infiltration pulled soil into a manhole, eroded the ground beneath a walkway in front of a residence, and threatened to compromise the home's foundation. Specialists from SiteMix Pressure Grouting, LLC were called in to perform repairs to address this urgent situation.

Powerful Polymers

Two key products were selected for the job. First, AP Fill 700 was chosen to stabilize the soil around the manhole and seal the leaks. This product features low viscosity, making it ideal for permeating soil and sealing thin cracks. Additionally, it activates with moisture, which is perfect for damp environments like this one. Secondly, AP Lift 430 was selected to stabilize the house's footing. This high-density product cures quickly. Furthermore, it excels at filling voids and stabilizing soil near structures due to its high load-bearing capacity.

Painless Procedures

The repair process began with stabilizing the soil around the manhole. To achieve this, injection rods were driven into the ground around the structure. Then, AP Fill 700 was injected to seal the leaks and stabilize the surrounding soil. Next, the team focused on the large void areas around the house's footing. Once again, injection rods were utilized. This time, AP Lift 430 was injected to fill the voids and secure the foundation.

Rapid Results

The repair project yielded impressive outcomes. First and foremost, the manhole was successfully sealed. In addition, the surrounding soil was stabilized, preventing further erosion. The walkway, previously at risk, was now secure. Importantly, the voids adjacent to the house were filled, protecting the foundation. Remarkably, all these tasks were completed in less than a day. Finally, the repaired area was prepared for the county to add backfill around the newly stabilized manhole. This swift and effective solution ensured the safety of both the property and its residents.

Want more information on stabilizing soil with polyurethane?

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) has revolutionized soil stabilization and concrete leveling projects. This non-invasive technology provides crucial subsurface information without disturbing the ground. Consequently, contractors and engineers can make more informed decisions about soil stabilization and concrete leveling techniques. Furthermore, Ground Penetrating Radar for soil stabilization and concrete leveling is vastly improving project outcomes. Let's explore how this technology is making a difference.

Alchatek's Deep Look GPR System

The Deep Look GPR System employs advanced technology for superior results. Notably, it features multi-frequency antennas, covering a wider bandwidth than conventional systems requiring multiple antennas. As a result, this approach allows for both detailed near-surface imaging and deeper sub-surface imaging. Thus, the Deep Look GPR unit streamlines the data collection process.

Advantages of Ground Penetrating Radar

GPR offers several benefits for soil stabilization projects:

• Non-invasive assessment: First and foremost, GPR provides valuable data without disturbing the site.
• Comprehensive imaging: Additionally, it detects soil layers, voids, buried objects, and groundwater levels.
• Enhanced safety: Moreover, by identifying subsurface hazards, GPR improves worker safety. Consequently, these advantages enable more accurate soil assessment, leading to better application strategies.

GPR in Action: From Raw Data to Insights

Raw GPR data provides valuable insights into subsurface conditions. Specifically, high-resolution images reveal intricate details about soil composition and structure. For instance, GPR can detect individual shallow rebars and even the spacing between surface tiles. Undoubtedly, this level of detail is crucial for soil stabilization and concrete leveling projects, as it helps identify potential weak points or areas requiring special attention.

Ground Penetrating Radar for Soil Stabilization and Concrete Leveling

In conclusion, Ground Penetrating Radar has proven to be an invaluable tool for soil stabilization and concrete leveling projects. Its noninvasive nature allows for comprehensive site assessment without disturbance, while high-resolution imaging provides crucial insights into subsurface conditions. Furthermore, GPR enhances safety by identifying hidden hazards, reduces costs by minimizing exploratory drilling, and improves project outcomes through more informed decision-making. Overall, from initial site surveys to quality control and ongoing monitoring, GPR's versatility and accuracy make it a powerful tool for modern geotechnical work.

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The owner of an apartment complex overlooking Stephen Foster Creek in Gainesville, Florida, faced a critical issue. The embankment below showed signs of erosion, creeping dangerously close to the structures. With each passing day, the unstable ground crept ever closer to the foundations of the residential structures, posing a significant threat to both the buildings and the safety of their inhabitants. The situation demanded immediate attention and a robust, long-term solution to safeguard the property and ensure the well-being of its residents. The predominantly sandy composition of the local soil posed a challenge for stabilization. Consequently, the geotech firm Stable Soils was called in to address this pressing concern.

Powerful Polymers

After conducting a thorough site assessment and carefully evaluating various potential solutions, the team at Stable Soils identified AP Soil 600 as the optimal polymer for this challenging project. This choice was strategic. AP Soil 600 features low viscosity, a crucial characteristic that allows it to effectively penetrate and permeate sandy soil. Moreover, its impressive strength after curing promised long-lasting stability for the embankment.

Painless Procedures

Injection points were established in a zigzag pattern, spaced 18 inches apart. The team drilled 10 feet below grade to reach the optimal depth for soil reinforcement. Low-pressure injection was key to the operation’s success. This approach prevented the chemical from fracturing the soil or moving in unintended directions. The injection rod was slowly extracted, allowing for precise distribution of the polymer. One gallon was applied every five minutes and every vertical foot. In total, a 240-foot row of soil stabilization resin was installed.

Rapid Results

The impact of this intervention was immediately apparent. During a subsequent heavy rain event, surrounding areas suffered minor washouts while the stabilized soil remained completely unaffected. The stark contrast in performance served as a powerful testament to the effectiveness of the AP Soil 600 polymer and the precision of its application. The apartment buildings, once precariously positioned near the eroding embankment, now stand secure and protected, their foundations no longer at risk from the relentless forces of erosion.

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

A developer in Miami Beach faced a significant challenge during the construction of a high-rise. Water began seeping into the foundation excavation, threatening the project's progress. The situation demanded swift action and expert intervention. Florida Foundation Systems was called in to address this critical issue. Traditional sheet pile shoring wasn't feasible due to the proximity of neighboring properties. The risk of damage from sheet pile installation vibrations ruled out conventional methods. The project involved multiple sections of 15x15 foot caisson foundations, crucial for areas with unsuitable soil conditions for shallow foundations. The primary objective was clear: mitigate water intrusion effectively.

Powerful Polymers

Florida Foundation Systems turned to an innovative solution: AP Fill 700. This polymer boasts unique properties that make it ideal for the task at hand. Its low viscosity allows for easy application, while controllable set times with a catalyst provide flexibility in use. Furthermore, the high expansion capabilities of AP Fill 700 make it exceptionally effective in filling voids and creating robust barriers.

Painless Procedures

The team targeted a specific zone for injection: 14 to 20 feet deep into a limestone base. First, they drilled holes and inserted pipes. Next, injections began at the 20-foot mark, creating a plug at the limestone base to block water intrusion. The process continued in a precise grid pattern across the entire area. Accuracy was paramount in this operation. One gallon of polymer was used per vertical foot. As the rods were slowly extracted, the team continued pumping at this rate. Consequently, the resin filled all the limestone fissures, ensuring comprehensive coverage and maximum effectiveness.

Rapid Results

The entire repair process was completed in less than a week. In that short time, all water intrusion was completely mitigated. Both the developer and general contractor expressed full satisfaction with the results. This swift resolution allowed the high-rise project to proceed without further delays. The success of this innovative approach not only solved the immediate problem but also prevented potential future issues, demonstrating the power of specialized expertise in complex construction projects.

Want more information on stabilizing soil with polyurethane?

Executives at a prominent shipbuilding company discovered a significant problem at one of their largest shipyards. Soil was migrating from the landward side of the bulkheads into the water, resulting in erosion and compromising the stability of the dock slabs. The shipbuilding company enlisted Helms PolyFoam, a local specialist in soil stabilization and concrete repair, to address the issue. Helms PolyFoam collaborated with Alchatek to develop a comprehensive repair plan. Their strategy focused on two key solutions: joint sealing and slab stabilization, designed to reinforce the bulkheads and fill voids beneath the concrete slabs.

Powerful Polymers

For soil erosion prevention and stabilization, the contractor selected AP Fill 720, a highly expansive geotechnical polyurethane foam known for its effectiveness in sealing leaks and reinforcing loose soil. To address the large voids beneath the slabs and ensure their stability, they opted for AP Lift 475, a high-density geotechnical polyurethane foam designed for concrete leveling, void filling, and soil stabilization.

Painless Procedures

To combat soil loss, AP Fill 720 was injected at 24-inch intervals along the wall. This spacing allowed the material to flow and connect between injection points, forming a grout wall that stabilized the loose soil. The process created a water-impermeable barrier, securing existing soil and mitigating loose soil along an 8-10 foot test section of the wall. At each point, a 1/2-inch steel tube was inserted to a depth of approximately 30 feet.

For slab stabilization and void filling, AP Lift 475 was injected beneath the concrete in a zigzag pattern. Using 3/8-inch holes and 1/2-inch steel tubes, the resin was introduced into the soil. As it expanded, it compressed the soil, filled voids, and generated positive pressure on the slab.

Rapid Results

The joint sealing and slab stabilization methods yielded excellent results. They effectively reinforced the wall, stopped soil erosion, and halted void formation. The structural polyurethane resins used proved to be a durable and efficient fix.

Want more information about stabilizing soil with structural polymers?

The Bowline is an iconic 16-story apartment development located in the Wickham suburb of Newcastle, Australia. There is a secant pile constructed wall system in the basement of this new building. However, an issue arose during the drilling process, where the overlaps were not interlocked correctly, resulting in voids and substantial leaks. This situation posed a risk of sinkhole formation under the main road, the light rail system, and neighboring properties. Furthermore, it led to the accumulation of a substantial water pool within the construction site, impeding further excavation efforts. Geotech contractors The Injection Experts AU were called in to solve the problem.

Powerful Polymers

The following materials were chosen for the project: AP Fill 720 was selected for full curtain injection behind the secant pile wall system to stabilize and seal the voids and leaks. Oakum was chosen to plug large voids and gushing leaks due to its ability to quickly stop high-flow water intrusion when soaked in resin. Spetec AG200 was chosen for injecting minor leaks because of its ability to penetrate and seal hairline cracks.

Painless Procedures

AP Fill 720 was pumped through an Alchatek PolyShark pump into 1.1m x 13mm injection rods. This was done to fill the voids left by escaping sand and water and to create a waterproof barrier on the back side of the secant piles. Oakum, soaked in resin, was packed into voids and large holes. This measure aimed to slow down the ingress of sand and water into the basement while excavation and injection processes were ongoing. Spetec AG200 was injected through 13mm packers to seal any fine hairline cracks and to provide touch-up sealing around the injection rods.

Rapid Results

The repair efforts were ultimately a success. Through the strategic use of polyurethane grouting methods, the voids and leaks in the secant pile wall system were effectively sealed. This meticulous process not only waterproofed the basement area but also mitigated the risk of sinkholes forming under the nearby road, light rail, and neighboring lots. As a result, the project was able to proceed safely without further excavation issues, marking a triumphant conclusion to a challenging endeavor.

Want more information on stabilizing soil and sealing leaks?