Probabilistic investigation on defective jet-grouted cut-off wall with random geometric imperfections

Abstract

This study examines the effect of geometric imperfections arising from variations in both the diameter and orientation of jet-grouted columns on the water-tightness of a jet-grouted cut-off wall. A three-dimensional discretised algorithm is used to detect and measure the discontinuities in the wall. A statistical evaluation of the gross flow rate through the cut-off wall with random flow-through pathways is carried out using Monte Carlo simulations. Based on the statistical results, a dimensionless design chart is proposed which can help engineers to devise safe and economical wall designs through trade-offs among various parameters such as target diameter, column spacing and number of rows.