M. Heidarzadeh, A.a. Mirghasemi, S. Etemadzadeh,
Volume 5, Issue 1 (3-2007)
Abstract
A new chemical grouting method has been developed for conglomerate formations based
on the experimental studies. Due to the lack of chemical grouting experience of conglomerate
formations, the testing programs were performed to evaluate the performance of chemical grouting
in the water sealing of part of conglomerate foundation of Karkheh earth dam using a combination
of field and laboratory tests. First, the chemical grouts alone were examined with regard to
viscosity-time behavior, gelation time, temperature-influence, stability, and deformability. These
laboratory tests, led to the selection of the final chemical grout which was a solution of sodium
silicate, water, and ethyl acetate as reactant. The second step tested grout-soil interaction: The
injectability and permeability reduction of the selected chemical grout was examined in field
injection tests. In this step two field tests were performed including shallow test holes without
hydrostatic pressure and full scale tests under dam real hydrostatic pressure head. Based on these
two field injection tests, performed in the conglomerate foundation of Karkheh dam, a new chemical
grouting method for conglomerate formations is proposed and satisfactory results led to the
recommendation of this method for eventually successful application.