Mechanical behaviour of grouted sands with acrylates and polyurethane resins

Abstract

Chemical grouting is a technique where solution-based binders are used to improve both mechanical and hydraulic properties of the soil or rocks. The following research study shows an extensive laboratory programme where a polyurethane (PU) and an acrylate (AC) were grouted in a tertiary sand under different water contents and relative density, with different gelling time and grouting conditions. Unconfined compressive strength, splitting tests, triaxial tests and creep tests on the grouted materials were conducted. A statistical interpretation considering the kernel probability density function was performed in order to understand the interdependency of the changing parameters. In general, PU-consolidated samples provide higher mechanical properties with respect to ACs; however, the effects and the dependency on the geotechnical base parameters are different.