Reducing Environmental Impact of Rock Mass Grouting Through Real Time Data Analysis-PPT Presentation

PPT Presentation

Pdf Summary

The presentation examines how real-time monitoring can reduce the environmental impact of pre-excavation grouting (PEG) in Norwegian tunnels. High-pressure grouting, typically 6–8 MPa, is effective at sealing narrow or clay-filled fractures and limiting water seepage. However, pressure may exceed the rock mass’s minor principal stress, increasing the risk of hydraulic jacking and excessive grout consumption.<br /><br />Cement production contributes substantially to PEG’s climate impact. In a demonstration scenario, estimated emissions from cement production were about 720 kg CO₂-equivalent per grouted tunnel metre using ordinary Portland cement (OPC), and 330 kg using microfine cement (MFC). The presentation notes that cement used to grout 100 metres of tunnel could have a global-warming impact comparable to the annual emissions of 15 people.<br /><br />Real-time software can alert operators to potential hydraulic jacking, prompting them to pause or reduce pressure. It can also flag holes at risk of high grout consumption early enough for operators to adjust the grout mix or strategy. Combining monitoring with high-quality drilling data and geological mapping may further improve decisions.<br /><br />Developed through the Logic Grouting project by SINTEF and Bever Control with industry partners, the tools aim to preserve the benefits of high-pressure grouting while reducing cement use, time, and environmental impact.

Keywords

real-time monitoring

pre-excavation grouting

Norwegian tunnels

hydraulic jacking

cement emissions

ordinary Portland cement

microfine cement

grout consumption

environmental impact

grouting software