doi:10.3850/GI167

ABSTRACT

The utilization of conventional method of removal and replacement of unsuitable material with compacted suitable fill for embankment construction over shallow marginal ground or the use of deep piled foundation to support high embankment has been common practice in the construction industry in Malaysia for many years. Today, engineers are being tasked with the requirement of selecting a suitable construction method that not only offers the most economical solution while satisfying all technical criteria, but also minimizes impact to the environment. In many cases, ground improvement has proven to be the solution. Ground improvement can be accomplished by modifying the soils characteristics with or without the addition of imported materials. It helps to save materials and resources and hence, it is a sustainable construction method. It minimizes the carbon dioxide emissions compared to conventional earthmoving or piling works. This paper describes an alternative ground improvement solution of a combination of dynamic replacement with vertical drains to support a high embankment on marginal ground with time constraint. An assessment of carbon footprint demonstrates a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to the exhibited method of removal and replacement. The works was successfully completed in November 2002.

Keywords: Sustainable construction; Ground improvement; Dynamic replacement; Vertical drains.

© 2010 by Geotechnical Society of Singapore (GeoSS)