Quantifying biomediated ground improvement by ureolysis: Large-scale biogrout experiment

Leon A. van Paassen, Ranajit Ghose, Thomas J.M. van der Linden, Wouter R.L. van der Star, Mark C.M. van Loosdrecht

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

696 Scopus citations

Abstract

Biogrouting is a biological ground improvement method, in which microorganisms are used to induce carbonate precipitation in the subsurface in order to increase the strength and stiffness of granular soils. In this paper the results of a large-scale experiment (100 m3) are presented, in which the feasibility of biogrouting as a ground improvement method is investigated using techniques and equipment similar to those used in potential applications. In situ geophysical measurements were used to monitor the biogrouting process during treatment and indicated that the stiffness had increased significantly after one day of treatment. The results of unconfined compressive strength tests on samples which were excavated after treatment were used to assess the distribution of mechanical properties throughout the cemented sand body, which correlated quite well with the results of the in situ geophysical measurements. The stiffness increase could be quantified as a function of the injected volume of grouting agents and the distance from the injection points. These results will serve as an important benchmark for future applications of biomediated ground improvement.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1721-1728
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume136
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2010
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • MICP
  • Seismic monitoring
  • Shear-wave velocity
  • Smartsoils
  • Sporosarcina pasteurii
  • UCS
  • Urea hydrolysis
  • Urease

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Environmental Science
  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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