Electrokinetics induced cementation in offshore soils

Author(s): Julie Q. Shang
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the International RILEM Conference on Materials, Systems and Structures in Civil Engineering Conference segment on Electrochemistry in Civil Engineering
Editor(s): Lisbeth M. Ottosen
ISBN: 978-2-35158-176-6
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-177-3
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2016
Pages: 178
Total Pages: 1
Language : English

Abstract: The research on electrokinetics induced cementation in offshore soils is presented. Experimental data and theoretical analysis demonstrate that significant cementation of offshore sediment and calcareous sand after electrokinetic treatment is attributed to electrochemical reactions with natural occurring carbonates, which is independent of electroosmotic consolidation. An innovative approach for soil improvement is developed based on the discovery, i.e. the combined electrokinetic and chemical treatment. Marine sediment samples mixed with chemical admixtures, including sulphate resistant cement, quicklime and coal fly ash, are subjected to the electrokinetic treatment. The effectiveness of the combined treatment is evaluated in terms of the soil shear strength and compressibility, as well as soil characteristics such as the water content, Atterberg limits, and water chemistry. The operational parameters such as the electric current density, applied voltage gradient and treatment time, are also discussed. The study demonstrates that with solid understanding of electrochemistry principles, the electrokinetic treatment may be applied in engineering practice for increasing the soil shear strength, reducing soil compressibility, modifying soil plasticity and enhancing load carrying capacity. The treatment is most effective in the vicinity of electrodes, which makes it especially attractive for increasing the bearing capacity of embedded anchors, caissons, sheetpiles and skirted foundations.

Online publication : 2016
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00