Ground Stabilisation for Urban Development in London
In urban development, ensuring adequate ground stability is crucial for the success of construction projects. This project in London involved Total Specialist Maintenance (TSM) collaborating with a developer to facilitate the construction of an apartment complex by addressing underlying soil challenges.
The Challenge
The developer aimed to increase the height of an existing building to create a new apartment complex. However, the underlying soils lacked sufficient ground bearing capacity, which was critical to meet the structural requirements for the new development, targeting a ground bearing capacity of 100 kN/m². TSM worked closely with the client’s structural engineer to design a tailored geopolymer solution that would enhance the soil’s load-bearing capabilities. Key concerns included:
- Insufficient Ground Bearing Capacity: The existing soil conditions did not support the intended structural loads, necessitating a reliable solution to ensure safety and stability.
- Collaboration with Engineering Teams: Effective communication and collaboration with the structural engineering team were essential to develop a solution that met the specific requirements of the project.
The Solution
To address the ground stability issues, TSM implemented an effective ground stabilisation strategy that included several critical steps:
- Driving Injection Lances: TSM began by installing injection lances to a depth of 2.5 meters below both the perimeter and internal foundations of the building. This depth was determined to ensure that the stabilisation would effectively reach the most critical areas of the soil.
- Injecting Stabilisation Resin: A structural polyurethane ground stabilisation geopolymer resin was injected through the lances. This high-performance resin was specifically chosen for its ability to bind soil particles and increase their load-bearing capacity.
- Incremental Extraction: To ensure thorough and continuous placement of the geopolymer material, the lances were extracted in 150mm increments. This careful method allowed for effective penetration and distribution of the resin, maximising the stabilisation effects.
This systematic approach effectively enhanced the ground bearing capacity, enabling the successful elevation of the building and ensuring the project could move forward without delay.
Managing Site Sensitivity
Given the complexities associated with urban development, TSM implemented careful planning to minimise disruption to the surrounding area:
- Real-Time Monitoring: Ground movement was closely monitored throughout the project, ensuring that the structural integrity of the existing building and nearby structures was maintained.
- Client Coordination: TSM maintained regular communication with the developer and structural engineering team, providing updates and ensuring that all aspects of the project were executed efficiently and effectively.
Environmental Considerations
The ground stabilisation method used was environmentally friendly, offering several benefits:
- Non-Toxic Materials: The materials employed in the resin injection process were non-toxic, posing no risk to the surrounding environment or water systems.
- Minimal Waste Generation: The injection method resulted in minimal waste, aligning with TSM’s commitment to sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.
Ensuring Structural Integrity
Throughout the project, TSM conducted regular assessments to ensure that the enhanced ground stability met all necessary specifications. This proactive approach confirmed that the site was ready for the planned construction activities, providing reassurance to the developer and stakeholders.
