Subsidence causes and how geopolymer treatments work

Depending on the cause of subsidence, the approach to geopolymer treatment may vary. Here are five explanations of how geopolymer treatment can differ based on different causes of subsidence:

1.Soil Consolidation/Subsidence due to Weak Soils:

– In cases where subsidence occurs due to weak or compressible soils, geopolymer treatment aims to strengthen the soil and reduce its compressibility. This can involve injecting geopolymers into the soil to fill voids and reinforce the soil matrix, increasing its load-bearing capacity and reducing settlement.

2.Expansive Clay Soils/Subsidence due to Swelling:

– Expansive soils, which shrink and swell with changes in moisture content, can cause subsidence. Geopolymer treatment, in this case, focuses on moisture control and stabilisation of the soil. Geopolymers are used to modify the soil’s water absorption properties, reducing its tendency to swell and shrink. This can help mitigate subsidence issues caused by moisture fluctuations.

3.Underground Mining/Subsidence due to Mining Activities:

– Mining activities can lead to subsidence as underground voids are created. Geopolymer treatment in mining-induced subsidence aims to fill these voids and stabilize the affected area. Injecting polymers into the void spaces helps provide support and prevent further ground movement.

4.Sinkholes/Subsidence due to Dissolution of Soluble Rocks:

– In areas where soluble rocks such as limestone or gypsum are present, subsidence can occur due to the dissolution of these rocks. Geopolymer treatment for sinkholes focuses on filling the voids created by the dissolution process. Geopolymers are injected to stabilise the ground, prevent further sinkhole development, and provide support to the affected areas.

5.Infrastructure-Induced/Subsidence due to Heavy Loads or Excavations:

– Subsidence can occur as a result of heavy loads on the ground or excavation activities for infrastructure development. Geopolymer treatment in such cases may involve injecting polymers to improve the load-bearing capacity of the soil or to stabilise the excavated areas. The goal is to enhance the ground’s strength and prevent further settlement.

It’s important to note that the specific geopolymer types, concentrations, injection techniques, and treatment depths will vary depending on the cause of subsidence and the site-specific conditions. Customizing our geopolymer treatment approach based on the underlying cause is crucial for achieving effective and long-lasting results.