This research project evaluates a wateractivated polymer (WAP) as an alternative grouting material for soils with high fines content that are typically nongroutable using cementitious grouts. The investigated WAP is a singlecomponent, lowviscosity liquid that reacts with in situ moisture to form a solid polyurethane with high strength and durability. The study combines laboratory testing and analytical evaluation to quantify viscosity evolution during polymerization, penetrability through micronscale pores, groutability in sand– clay mixtures and mechanical properties of grouted soils.
Laboratory testing included viscosity measurements, microfiltration penetration tests, unconfined compressive strength testing, and fillratio determination. Chemical kinetics laws were applied to correct measured viscosity for COâ‚‚ gas generation during reaction.
The findings demonstrate that WAP grouting significantly extends the groutability range beyond that achievable with cementitious materials, offering a promising, lowercarbon alternative for ground improvement in finegrained soils.