The Deep Stabilization Method

Swedish Deep Stabilization Research Centre
c/o Swedish Geotechnical Institute
SE-581 93 Linköping, Sweden

Phone: +46 13 20 18 61
Fax: +46 13 20 19 14
E-mail: goran.holm@swedgeo.se

www.swedgeo.se/sd

The Deep Stabilization Method

Deep stabilization of soft soils with lime- cement columns has been used in Sweden since 1975 for reinforcement of the soil. With this technique the soft soil is mixed in situ with a stabilizing material creating a column with a diameter of 0.5 to 1.2 meter down to a depth of normally 15 to 25 meters. During the last 4 to 5 years, the use of the method has increased substantially and the method has become the most frequently used reinforcement method in infrastructure projects. About 3 to 4 millions linear metres of lime-cement columns have been installed annually the last years.

Another technique that has been used during the last years is mass stabilization. By this technique the upper part of the soft soil is mixed horizontally as well as vertically. The methods are primarily used for reduction of settlements and for improvement of stability, mainly in infrastructure projects, such as roads and railways on soft soil deposits. It is also used for foundation of smaller buildings and bridges as well as for stabilization of excavations and natural slopes. The method is mainly used in soft clays but also in organic clays and clayey silts.

The experience of these methods are very favourable from a technical apect and from an economic point of view as well. Considerable cost redutions can be made compared with alternative methods. There is also a reduction in construction time (the time-to-market) for infrastructure projects compared with other methods. Furthermore, less maintenance is required. A final and important advantage is the fact, that the method is environmentally friendly.

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