Undrained behaviour of Echteld clay under the microscope
A. Wiggers, R. Servais, H.J. Lodder, Geotechniek no. 3, August 2020, page 9
During the design process of the dyke reinforcement of the primary flood defence between Gorinchem and Waardenburg (GoWa), an in-depth investigation of the undrained shear strength properties of the clay in the subsoil was carried out. The study showed that, for the soil types investigated, a lower strain criterion than that mentioned in the technical guidance documents and the underlying protocols can responsibly be assumed. Applying a lower strain criterion led to higher shear strength parameters resulting in an optimised design. Full article
'Fit for purpose' foundation piles for new jetty LBC tank terminals
P.J. Bogaards, M. van den Berg, A.J. Tanis, Geotechniek No 3, August 2020, page 16
In geotechnical terms, the foundation piles under the LBC jetty were a major challenge. A foundation with a relatively stiff load-sagging behaviour and a high bearing capacity was sought. Various pile systems were investigated, after which an open steel tubular pile with a concrete plug was chosen. The application of a concrete fill in a traditional open tubular steel pile results in a high load-bearing capacity and a relatively stiff load-sagging behaviour: the 'fit for purpose' pile. Full article
Load test on historic quay walls Antwerp
S. Bonte, Geotechniek no. 3, August 2020, page 26
Within the framework of the Master Plan Scheldt Quays, large sections of weight walls are being replaced by the traditional anchored combi wall or relieved by means of a hollow space behind the quay wall and additionally anchored. For some weight walls at the level of the Pilotage, such drastic measures proved unnecessary: stability was demonstrated using an in-situ load test at actual scale. This resulted in a significant reduction in project costs and execution time and preservation of precious historical heritage. Full article
Repair solution for horizontal displacements of high-speed railway track body
J. van Wessem, Geotechnics No 3, August 2020, page 58
The high-speed railway line in the Netherlands built from 2002 to 2006 shows large lateral (sideways) displacements of up to 65mm near Rijpwetering. The displacements are a direct result of asymmetry in the subsurface due to the difference in behaviour of soft soil on one side and the stiff sand body of the A4 national highway on the other. This article examines two solution scenarios: the application of a prestressed sheet piling and a weight reduction using EPS. Full article