Chapter 14 - A Field-Based Study of the Effectiveness of Rolling Dynamic Compaction

Abstract

Rolling dynamic compaction (RDC) is a soil improvement technique that involves a heavy noncircular module (impact roller) that rotates about a corner as it is towed, causing the module to fall to the ground and compact it dynamically. While conventional circular rollers are able to compact layer thicknesses typically up to 500mm, thicker layers are able to be compacted using RDC due to the dynamic effect of the module, which yields a greater depth of influence. When combined with the ability to compact ground efficiently, by means of its faster operating speed (9–12km/h) when compared to conventional circular rollers, RDC can be a productive and cost-effective option in many different earthwork applications. However, the depth of influence of RDC can vary significantly depending on the soil type, moisture content, loose layer thickness, or number of passes adopted.