Case Study
In-situ soil Stabilisation for the construction of a piling mat
This case study presents a successful approach to addressing unstable ground conditions that hindered building work. By using SMR through our in-situ application method, the ground was effectively stabilised, surpassing the required CBR value and enabling the safe commencement of building activities.
Problem Statement
The project encountered a major setback due to unstable ground conditions, which rendered vibro piling unfeasible. The absence of suitable crushed material in the vicinity prompted a reassessment of conventional techniques for constructing a piling platform capable of achieving a minimum CBR value of 30%. Stabilisation was required across approximately 10,000m³ of ground, with a site inspection revealing a high moisture content of 46%.
The SMR Solution
Following confirmation of elevated moisture levels through soil analysis, the decision was made to implement ground modification and stabilisation using SMR’s in-situ application method.
The treatment involved an initial 300mm pass with SMR DryBind, immediately followed by a second pass using SMR Proprietary Binder to the same depth. Both binders were thoroughly rotavated into the subgrade to ensure uniform distribution and effective integration.
Final compaction was carried out using a 13-tonne single drum roller, consolidating the treated layer to achieve the required structural integrity.
Benefits
After 48 hours of curing, testing confirmed a minimum CBR value of 30%, with the average increasing to 43% after seven days.
These results exceeded the required specifications, enabling the safe mobilisation of a 54-tonne vibro piling unit. This achievement marked a critical turning point in the project, allowing the building programme to resume without further delay.
The successful outcome also validated the effectiveness of the SMR in-situ stabilisation technique under high-moisture conditions, demonstrating its reliability in challenging ground environments.
The improved bearing capacity not only met engineering standards but also reduced the risk of future settlement, contributing to long-term structural integrity.
Conclusion
The implementation of SMR successfully mitigated ground instability, achieving the required CBR values and allowing the project to proceed without delay.
This not only demonstrated the reliability and efficiency of the method under challenging conditions, but also reinforced its potential as a scalable solution for similar geotechnical challenges in future developments.
By ensuring structural integrity and maintaining project momentum, SMR proved to be a critical asset in both technical and operational terms.
