Soft Ground Improvement – Issues and Selection

Issues that affect the successful application of ground improvement in soft ground are studied, with emphasis on the design, construction and long-term performance of the improved ground, and recent developments relevant to Australian geotechnical practice.

This paper discusses various technical issues affecting typical soft ground improvement techniques including: densification, consolidation, weight reduction, structural support and chemical treatment. Several factors that can influence the selection of a ground improvement technique, or a combination of techniques, are discussed. Case studies are provided to demonstrate the recent application of ground improvement techniques to the design and construction process.