Soil improvement system using resin injections in submerged tunnels

Abstract

The world of construction, and in particular the field of underground works, is immersed in a constant state of innovation and development. Numerous new variables are at work in this field, both in the improvement of the properties of materials and construction technology and in the new requirements and demands of users. Throughout history, civil engineering has had to offer support to the needs of comfort, aesthetics, sustainability and worker safety, among others. Of these, the latter is the most important and has become increasingly relevant in recent years. This research aims to offer an integral solution to the tunnelling process, under phreatic surfaces and in geological conditions of low cohesive strength and subjected to high pressures. The intention of this technology is to treat the ground by means of injections applied from inside a TBM to revise and replace the worn tools of its cutting wheel. The proposed solution consists of installing a high-frequency drilling unit in a hydroshield TBM. This new device is analysed to determine whether it offers a solution for the proposed requirements. The results obtained confirm a 15% improvement compared to existing solutions, greater efficiency and speed of execution, while proving to be a safer technique in terms of occupational risk prevention and respect for the environment.