Void filling
Challenge
Void formation and ground weakening within a highway embankment caused by badger sett activity led to surface settlement and full road closure.
Solution
Geobear delivered a targeted geopolymer injection solution to fill voids, stabilise weak soils, and restore structural support without excavation.
Across multi-depth grid
Treatment depth
No excavation required
A local road crossing over a disused railway near Halberton experienced surface deformation, including visible depressions and the formation of an open void within the carriageway. Due to the narrow bridge geometry and safety constraints, the route was fully closed to vehicular traffic.
Initial investigation identified extensive subsurface voiding and extremely weak ground conditions beneath the carriageway. Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) testing recorded blow counts as low as zero to one, confirming a near-total loss of bearing capacity in localised zones.
The root cause was linked to extensive badger sett activity within the embankment. Prior to remediation, ecological mitigation works were undertaken, including relocation of the badgers and installation of protective measures to prevent reoccupation.
Geobear designed and implemented a targeted geopolymer injection scheme to address both void filling and ground improvement.
A high-expansion structural geopolymer resin was selected due to its ability to:
The treated ground comprised mixed soils with a notable granular component, allowing the geopolymer to both occupy void space and permeate surrounding soils, enhancing overall ground competence.
Verification included:
Geobear’s solution was selected over traditional methods due to clear technical and operational advantages:
Get in touch with our expert team today and discover how Geobear can extend the life of your critical infrastructure assets.
