University of Alberta Geotechnical Graduate Seminar: Controlled Modulus Columns

Jul 11, 2024

University of Alberta Geotechnical Graduate Seminar

Date: [No date provided]

Announcements

  • Event: PEGASus Student Liaison Committee Virtual Engineering and Geosciences Industry Mixer
    • Date & Time: Tomorrow night, 5:30-7:00 PM
    • Purpose: Opportunity for students to interact with industry representatives
    • Sign-Up Link: Posted in chat

Guest Presenter: Yubar Skash

  • Role: President of Menard Canada
  • Education:
    • ESTP Civil Engineering School, France
    • Technical University of Dresden, Germany
  • Experience:
    • Working with Menard since 2003
    • Specializes in various ground improvement techniques including soil densification, consolidation, reinforcement, and grouting
    • Menard: A specialty geotechnical contractor offering innovative ground improvement solutions

Focus of the Presentation: Controlled Modulus Columns (CMCs)

  • Purpose: Reinforce compressible soils, increase bearing capacity, and control settlement
  • Applications: Suitable under conventional structural foundations or embankments

Overview of Menard Canada

  • History: In Canada for 50 years (Formerly Joe Pack, name changed in 2007)
  • Head Office: Montreal
    • Other locations: Vancouver, Calgary, Charlottetown, Ottawa, Hamilton
  • Global Presence: Half-billion euro group working worldwide
  • Services: Design and build ground improvement contractor
    • Wide range of ground improvement techniques
    • Collaborative work with consultants
    • Focus on innovative solutions and efficient construction execution

Ground Improvement Techniques

  • Types of Ground: Cohesive and Non-cohesive soils
  • Techniques & Depth Ranges:
    • Rapid Impact Compaction (RIC): Up to 5 meters
    • Dynamic Compaction: Up to 8-12 meters
    • Vibro Compaction: Unlimited depth (example: up to 70 meters for wind turbines)
    • Vibro Replacement: Up to 25 meters
    • Controlled Modulus Columns (CMC): Up to 50 meters
    • Example Project: Nice Airport dynamic compaction (40 meters)

Controlled Modulus Columns (CMCs)

  • Mechanism: Rigid inclusions that displace soil during installation, minimal soil spoil
  • Equipment: Special rigs with concrete pumps
    • Equipment for both displacement and grout injection
    • Capable of working under water
  • Quality Control: Regular load tests, UCS value checks, design validation, parameter recording
  • Applications: Buildings, railroads, ports, airports, energy sectors, embankments, tanks, etc.

Key Benefits

  • Cost Effective: Compared to deep foundations
  • Settlement Reduction: Up to 90%, depending on soil properties
  • Bearing Capacity: Up to 400 KPA (SLS)
  • Versatility: Suitable for different structures and soils

Example Projects

  1. Trinity Hills Project (Alberta)

    • Project: Residential development
    • Depth: Average 6 meters
    • Scope: ~1000 CMCs
    • Timeline: Sep-Nov 2018

  2. Edmonton LRT Phase One

    • Project: LRT Line and Muttart Station
    • Combination of CMCs and drains
    • Scope: Settlement mitigation

  3. Calcium Tongue Farm (Tanks)

    • Depth: CMCs up to 10 meters
    • Load: 220-250 KPA
    • Focus: Settlement and tilt control

Conclusion

  • Technique Benefits: Effective settlement control, cost efficiency, and versatility
  • Experience: 10+ years of CMC application in Canada without issues
  • Affiliations and Hiring: Open for collaborations and recruitment

Contact Info: Provided for further queries and discussions