The impact of Rapid Impulse Compaction (RIC) of large non-cohesive material deposits on the surrounding area

Abstract

Rapid Impulse Compaction technology makes it possible for improving the ground physical properties, especially when the large thickness of non-cohesive material layers is considered. It is also very efficient for compaction of large deposits of spoil rock from the mining industry or from the demolition works. It also allows making columns out of mining recycled aggregate or construction debris to improve weak cohesive soils. Equipment used in this method ensures fast completion of the work; however, it may cause large noise and severe vibrations. This environmental impact on the neighbourhood and adjacent structures may bring some threats and cause discussions over the technology application limits. Nevertheless, there are effective monitoring tools enabling a control over the whole process, achieving good engineering effects and running the work without negative influence (or within acceptable criteria) to the surrounding buildings and infrastructure facilities. The presented case studies show: how the intensity of vibrations is dependent on the distance from the source of the dynamic impact. In the case of analysed Rapid Impulse Compaction. The results were compared to the previously published results of computer modelling of such an impact. All the research activities were granted by DABI SM BUDNY Company as a part of their Research and Development program. Numerous cycles of vibration monitoring control were conducted on the building site in Wrocław (Poland). The major part of readings was made in course of compaction of non-cohesive layers, partially replaced by sorted debris from crushing of concrete elements from demolition works. Similar results were achieved in course of forming controlled fills composed of spoil material (crushed rock) from the mining industry. The presented research result is a part of the joined Polish-Russian program of training periods under the supervision of Jaroslaw Rybak, PhD from Wrocław University of Science and Technology.