Innovative Ground Improvement with Chemical Grouts: Potential and Limits of Partial Saturation with Polymers

Abstract

Nowadays, polymers are well-established in geotechnical applications, for example as grouting material for soil and rock stabilization, or as grouting material for anchorages. Concerning ground improvement, the polymers act as a binder that, if cured, holds the grains together by adhesive and cohesive forces. This special characteristic enables the use of less material and therefore saves costs but requires detailed knowledge of the material behavior to avoid application errors. The subject of this research work are two different polymers, which are used for partial saturation of the ground. For the investigation of the mechanical and hydraulic properties of the ground improvement, the geotechnical testing program on the composite material of polymers and gravel is extended by special tests, such as rheometer tests, for chemical grouts. If the polymers are used correctly, the composite material can achieve a load-bearing capacity comparable to that of concrete while the material remaining permeable. This is highlighted by strength tests on the composite material. Finally, the numerical calculation of a track ballast stabilization, using PFC-FLAC3D coupling, demonstrates the potential of the polymers for practical application and that even difficult ground conditions can be handled with it.