Recycled Polymer application during pile boring operations: A review-Paper

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The paper reviews the use and recycling of polymer support fluids during bored-pile construction, particularly for offshore and marine projects. Polymer slurry stabilizes boreholes before concrete placement and can offer faster preparation, easier handling, reduced flushing, and simpler reuse than bentonite. However, improper slurry handling and disposal may harm the environment.<br /><br />Fluid performance depends on soil and groundwater conditions, water quality, excavation methods, and project dimensions. Its key properties—viscosity, density, pH, and sand content—are tested during preparation, boring, and before concreting. The paper describes mixing polymer with water, maintaining agitation, and using suitable storage and sedimentation tanks. High-shear centrifugal pumps should be avoided where possible, as they may degrade polymer performance.<br /><br />After use, slurry can be returned to a mixing tank, tested, and regenerated by removing sediment and adding fresh polymer or water as indicated by test results. The regenerated fluid is tested again before storage and reuse. The review also discusses commercial polymers and additives intended to improve stabilization or reduce fluid loss in difficult soils. It notes that used slurry and borehole waste must be disposed of appropriately; one described method uses sodium hypochlorite treatment before disposal, subject to applicable regulations.<br /><br />Compared with bentonite, polymers generally require less mixing and flushing, do not need the same de-sanding equipment, and can improve site productivity. Their effectiveness nevertheless depends on suitable selection, monitoring, and management.<br /><br />The authors conclude that polymer fluids can be effective and economical support fluids for pile boring, provided project conditions and manufacturer guidance are considered and slurry is properly tested, recycled, and disposed of.

Keywords

polymer slurry

bored-pile construction

offshore marine projects

borehole stabilization

slurry recycling

bentonite comparison

fluid properties

viscosity monitoring

sediment removal

environmental disposal