Dynamic compaction (DC) is a ground improvement technique involving the controlled impact of a heavy weight, dropped from heights up to 10 meters in a pre-determined grid pattern. This method compacts loose, granular, and mixed soils and fills by generating significant impact energy, primarily vertical, that transmits shock waves through the ground which reduce air and water voids between soil particles resulting in enforced settlement. The process includes repeated surface tamping, forming imprints at each drop position, which are infilled with granular material after each pass.
Advantages:
- Can densify deep soils down to 12m
- Increases the allowable bearing capacity of the soil
- Can cater to various of soil types, from natural sandy gravel to alluvial, saturated clay, and silty ground
- Sustainable technique using limited material import
- Can improve at more high depth than methods like conventional rolling compaction
- Cost savings in excess of deep foundations and most undercut and replace options
- Mitigates the risk of liquefaction in case of seismic events
- Removal of compressible, contaminated fills can sometimes be avoided
The DC technique is most suitable for loose medium to coarse-grained sands with silt / clay content less than 15% (somehow efficient with fines content between 15% and 20%). It can be applicable for depths up to 12m, but the typical ideal effective depth is down to 10m.
DDC is effective both above and below the ground water table although vertical drain elements (such as wick drains) are typically used to assist with pore water dissipation when the water table is relatively shallow.
Contact our representative today to discover how Dynamic Compaction can be tailored to your project’s requirements and ensure a solid foundation for your success.
