CeTeau - Dynamic Compaction (DC)

The DC technique is most suitable for loose medium to coarse-grained sands with silt / clay content less than 15% (somehow efficient with fines content between 15% and 20%). It can be applicable for depths up to 12m, but the typical ideal effective depth is down to 10m.

DDC is effective both above and below the ground water table although vertical drain elements (such as wick drains) are typically used to assist with pore water dissipation when the water table is relatively shallow.

• Reclamation projects.
• Densification of fills, mine refuse, collapsible soils, sanitary landfills, and soils loosened by sinkholes.
• The method works best on granular soils where the degree of saturation is low, the permeability is high and the drainage is excellent.

• A relatively inexpensive method.
• Increases the allowable bearing capacity of the soil.
• Mitigates the risk of liquefaction in case of seismic events.
• Can densify deep soils down to 12m.

• DC is not suitable if water depths are shallower than 1.5m.
• Not effective when soils have fines content in excess of 20%.
• Limitations where highly sensitive structures susceptible to ground vibrations are nearby.
• Limited effective depth typically of 10m, although this can improve up to 12m.
• It cannot be used near underground services.
• It cannot be applied if soft cohesive soils are located in the upper part of the compaction.