Case Study
In-situ soil stabilisation for a cycle path
This case study highlights the successful use of SMR In-Situ Stabilisation to address subsidence and rutting issues in a cycle track in Exeter. By utilising SMR proprietary binder, the project achieved high load-bearing capabilities, reduced environmental impact, and minimized disruption.
Problem Statement
The cycle track suffered from ongoing subsidence and rutting despite previous remedial efforts, leading to frequent maintenance needs. Traditional methods involving quarried stone were not effective in providing a long-lasting solution.
The SMR Solution
In-situ stabilisation using SMR proprietary binder was chosen to create a permanent and eco-friendly remedy. SMR UK appointed European Aggregate Recycling to use traditional stabilisation equipment and methods to dig out and reconstitute the required single layer of stabilised material. Exeter City Council’s appointed contractor then provided a tracked vehicle to load the SMR proprietary binder into a stabilisation hopper to level and compact the SMR mixed material. This stabilised material was then compacted and a wearing course was applied to complete the process.
Benefits
The use of SMR In-Situ Stabilisation led to multiple benefits:
Environmental Impact Reduction: The solution avoided landfill and primary aggregate use, minimizing the project’s carbon footprint.
Cost and Time Savings: Fewer lorry movements and shorter project duration resulted in substantial cost savings.
Sustainable Approach: The project’s eco-friendly solution aligned with environmental preservation goals.
Conclusion
The SMR In-Situ Stabilisation achieved remarkable results:
Reduced Lorry Movements: Only eight lorry movements were required compared to an estimated 144 for traditional methods involving excavation and primary aggregate import.
Shortened Job Time: The SMR solution significantly reduced the project’s duration by eliminating material transportation, storage, and double handling.
100% Recovery Rate: All existing material was converted into a stabilised sub-base layer, eliminating landfill and primary aggregate use.
Higher Load Bearing Performance: The stabilised sub-base achieved a load bearing capability of 5N/mm², surpassing the capacity of primary aggregates.
Minimal Social Disruption: Reduced lorry movements minimized traffic disruption on the heavily trafficked Sannerville Way.
The In-Situ application of SMR successfully addressed the cycle track’s subsidence and rutting issues. By achieving sustainable results, minimizing environmental impact, and optimizing project efficiency, the case study exemplifies the effectiveness of innovative stabilisation methodologies.
