SOIL-CEMENT UTILIZATION EFFICIENCY IN AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURES CONSTRUCTION

This study presents an analytical comparison of alternative foundation solutions for a frame-type agricultural building, with a specific focus on the efficiency of deep soil mixing technology employing soil–cement piles. The research evaluates three foundation types: reinforced bored concrete piles, bored injection piles, and soil–cement piles produced using in-situ mixing technology. A comprehensive techno-economic comparison was conducted based on the reduced cost coefficient method to determine the most cost-effective solution. The findings demonstrate that soil–cement piles provide the most economical option among the three examined alternatives. This type of pile foundation showed the lowest value of reduced costs, making it the most financially viable solution for the construction of agricultural structures. Additionally, significant savings in material consumption – particularly concrete and reinforcement steel – were identified, contributing further to the cost-effectiveness of the proposed solution. The practical benefits of using soil–cement foundations extend beyond direct cost savings. These elements are especially suitable for agricultural applications, including buildings for livestock farming, greenhouses, grain depots, food processing facilities, and auxiliary structures. One of the major logistical advantages of deep soil mixing technology is its adaptability to remote rural areas, where infrastructure is limited. The use of local soils mixed with cementitious binders directly on-site minimizes the transportation of bulk materials, reducing both environmental impact and logistical expenses. Mobile soil-mixing equipment enables flexible and rapid deployment, enhancing project execution efficiency in field conditions. Furthermore, the technology eliminates the need for extensive material storage or large construction staging areas, making it particularly advantageous for projects located far from urban centers. The research confirms the technical and economic viability of soil–cement piles constructed via deep soil mixing technology as a rational and sustainable foundation solution for agricultural buildings, particularly in remote or infrastructure-limited settings. The outcomes of this study may serve as a foundation for further research on optimizing the structural performance and cost-efficiency of soil–cement systems in agricultural settings. Moreover, the findings could assist engineers and project planners in selecting sustainable and locally adaptable solutions for rural construction challenges.