Great Work To Strengthen Soil

Soils stabilisation and strengthening is the modification of the physical properties of soils by mechanical and chemical methods in order to obtain properties important for use in construction. The very process of preparing the underlying soil to ensure higher stability of the road under load, so that it can better withstand the heavy traffic loads. As a result, a rigid mechanically stabilised layer is formed capable of reducing precipitation unevenness, granular materials` layers thickness, overlapping weak deposits, and increasing soil base bearing capacity.

Soil Stabilisation involves careful grinding and mixing of the soil with appropriate binding materials so that after high-quality compaction and solidification, the soil becomes more dense (durable) and provides a stronger base. Good underlying soil stabilisation, and appropriate soil compaction are the key to the completed project reliability and durability. One of the factors influencing the work success is that the road surface will become more resistant to weather conditions and frost. stabilisation methods give the same results as in the case of old, worn-out roads, runways or parking lots restoration.

Technology advantages:

• Increased durability;
• Higher modulus of elasticity;
• Low permeability;
• Reducing the road surface thickness;
• Earthworks minimization;
• Use of unsuitable materials for construction;
• No need to move the soils;
• Less equipment is needed;
• Costs are reduced due to the on-site mixing process;
• Total construction time is reduced.

Materials for soil stabilisation

When stabilising soils, different materials are used, depending on the chosen method. Let’s look at the most common of them:

• Cement

Cement is one of the most effective and widely used binders for soil stabilisation. It forms strong cement compounds, significantly increasing the bearing soil capacity. Portland cement and special additives are usually used to regulate the setting time.

• Lime

Lime is used to improve plastic clay soils. It causes metabolic reactions, reducing soil plasticity and swelling. There are two main types of lime:

– Quicklime (CaO)

– Hydraulic lime (a mixture of CaO and pozzolan materials)

• Bitumen binders

Bitumen binders such as liquid bitumen, emulsion bitumen or asphalt are used to stabilise sandy and gravel soils. They provide water resistance, high shear strength and resistance to water.

• Geosynthetic materials

Various geosynthetics, such as geogrids, geotextiles and geogrids, are used for soil reinforcement. They increase the tensile strength, prevent soil particles shifting and movement.

• Chemical additives

Various chemical additives such as silicates, polymers, surfactants, etc. can also be used. They make it possible to improve the specific soil properties by adapting them to the specific requirements of the project.

The choice of materials depends on the soil type, the required characteristics, economic considerations and environmental factors. Proper selection ensures effective and long-lasting soil stabilisation.

The design of a soil stabilisation system is an important step that requires careful study of site conditions, soil characteristics and expected loads. Proper design, taking into account all factors, is the key to successful and long-lasting stabilisation of soil foundations. Computer modelling and calculations help to optimize solutions and reduce risks.

Soil stabilisation requires an integrated approach and the involvement of highly qualified specialists to conduct bulk earthworks. However, if all the necessary requirements are met, it provides significant advantages, allowing you to build reliable and durable structures even on weak or problematic soils.