A Simplified Circularity Assessment Model for Soil Mixing Applications-PPT Presentation

PPT Presentation

Pdf Summary

The presentation introduces a simplified circularity assessment model for soil mixing (SMX), a cost-effective geotechnical method that can produce lower-carbon solutions than conventional construction. Because cement and fuel account for more than 93% of SMX’s embodied carbon, reducing or replacing these inputs is central to improving sustainability.<br /><br />Adapted from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Butterfly Diagram, the model applies circular-economy principles across the project lifecycle. It brings together decision-makers, contractors, suppliers, manufacturers, project managers, and onsite teams, with ongoing collaboration and feedback to improve designs, materials, equipment, and procedures. Technical measures include early contractor involvement, innovative design, and effective quality control to prevent rework. Operational measures focus on efficient methods, optimized equipment, renewable fuels, and reduced material use.<br /><br />A cited project showed how collaboration and design optimization—including larger columns and cement with 65% slag—reduced project scope and embodied carbon by 4,200 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent. Process planning can also limit excess soilcrete, which may be costly to handle and dispose of. Pre-excavation and careful planning of cavity depths can reduce mixing lengths and scope by 10–30%.<br /><br />The presentation also highlights using soil mixing to rehabilitate existing infrastructure, extend its service life, and avoid carbon-intensive new construction. Future opportunities include reusing existing soilcrete elements in new projects. Overall, circularity assessment can help project teams reduce emissions while also lowering costs and improving schedules.

Keywords

soil mixing

circular economy

embodied carbon

cement reduction

slag replacement

sustainable construction

quality control

project lifecycle

infrastructure rehabilitation

carbon emissions