The effects of filtration on the injection of cement-based grouts in sand columns

Abstract

This article presents injection experiments and modeling of cement based grout in sand. In particular, it focuses on the role of filtration during the sand impregnation by the grout. One-dimensional injection tests in sand columns are performed. In these, the mass intake of the sample and the injection pressure are measured to quantify the effects of filtration during grouting. The cement-to-water ratio of the grout and the initial density of the soil are also studied. The modeling of these tests is achieved by incorporating the filtration and the damage coefficients in the classical transport in porous media equations. A method is proposed to determine these coefficients. The method simultaneously relies on both analytical analysis and experimental measurements. Density and viscosity effects are also considered in the model equations which are solved using the finite element method. The simulation of an injection test proves that the model is suitable to recover the injection pressure obtained experimentally. Finally, both experimental and numerical results reveal the importance of including filtration when analyzing one-dimensional injections of cement based grouts in sand.