Rock and soil stabilization, sealants and other ground improvement methods have constantly evolved their scope to cater for factors such as the forces exerted by water, seismic hazards and making the system watertight.
The deep and special foundations of dams can be designed to have a high load-bearing capacity and to be watertight, as required.
Rock grouting is among the main techniques used to improve the ground conditions; its use depends on the geotechnical analysis and the structural requirements.
VSL-Intrafor has its own workforce, equipment and materials for carrying out all main ground improvement techniques. These include:
- soil consolidation;
- environmental protection;
- temporary consolidation;
- dewatering; and
- grouting.
In the event of structural cracks, grouting is the best solution to stop the cracks and strengthen the dam’s structure, in order to prevent any water leakage.
Ground improvement can be carried out at the construction stage or later on, in the case of repairs and upgrades to the structure.
When combined with the VSL ‘slab on grade’ solution, ground improvement helps optimize costs and can be used as part of the foundations.
VSL provides a performance commitment for its services including:
- Ground investigation
- Design & build
- ‘Slab on grade’
- Annual maintenance of dams, carried out in accordance with local standards
