Deep Foundation Difficulties Solved by Custom Grouting

Customized drilling and grouting can be used to solve the most challenging deep foundation problems. Consider that deep foundations are themselves a way to construct in difficult conditions, and conventional deep foundation techniques have their risks and limitations. Beyond the normal limits, aid can be provided by the use of grouting techniques for ground improvement. A wide range of grouting techniques are possible and often a combination of techniques are required. Some improvement may be achieved at first using a primary approach, but then further improvement requires deliberate adjustment of the technique in response to early improvement and changed conditions. Extreme difficulties can be resolved if such an observational and open minded approach can be adopted. Project examples are given including base plug grouting in artesian conditions, grouting for the recovery of an open faced hard rock TBM bogged in soft soils, and grouting in deep mine waste to permit trench cutter diaphragm wall construction. Temporary and customized grouting is done often as temporary works to aid a risky situation. Customised techniques are unlikely to be defined or recognized as a traditional text book applications, although the most unexpected and challenging conditions can be overcome.