Versatility of Compaction Grouting to Stabilize and Lift Large Structures-Paper

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The paper presents two case studies demonstrating compaction grouting as a versatile, economical method for stabilizing and lifting large structures affected by differential settlement.<br /><br />In Presho, South Dakota, a 105-ft-diameter grain silo settled approximately 5 in. across its foundation, causing operational problems and cracking. Crews installed 67 angled grout locations through and beside the ring-wall foundation. Grouting was performed in controlled, bottom-up stages, with multiple locations injected simultaneously and foundation movement monitored throughout. The work brought the elevation difference around the foundation to within 1.5 in., restoring the silo to operational tolerance. The bin has remained in service.<br /><br />In Draper, Utah, settlement along the western edge of a five-story office building caused jammed doors, cracks, and uneven floors. Compaction grouting stabilized and lifted nine spread footings and a stairway structure, with push piers used to control forces near a retaining wall and polyurethane grout used to fill voids after lifting. The most-settled foundation was raised about 3.5 in. Post-work surveys found no additional settlement.<br /><br />The projects involved different structures and soil conditions, but both succeeded through careful assessment, staged grouting, real-time adjustment of grout mix and injection rates, and continuous elevation monitoring. The authors conclude that appropriate sequencing, quality control, and modeling help achieve controlled lifting while reducing the risk of future settlement.

Keywords

compaction grouting

differential settlement

foundation stabilization

structural lifting

grain silo

office building

controlled grouting

settlement remediation

elevation monitoring

ground improvement