Challenge
Void formation beneath hardstanding at Barking substation risked asset stability and operational resilience, requiring ground improvement without disrupting live electrical infrastructure.
Solution
Geobear delivered precision geopolymer injection to fill voids, re‑compact underlying soils and restore bearing capacity with minimal excavation and no interruption to substation operations.
Works delivered around critical infrastructure
Localised geopolymer injection
No excavation or heavy plant
Barking substation forms part of critical electrical infrastructure, where ground stability beneath hardstanding areas is essential to maintaining safe and reliable operations.
Voids had developed beneath sections of the surface, likely due to washout and long‑term ground movement. Loss of support posed a risk to structural performance and long‑term asset integrity. Early intervention was required to prevent further deterioration while maintaining continuous operation of the facility.
Working within a live substation environment presents significant operational and safety constraints. Traditional excavation and ground replacement would have required heavy plant, increased programme duration and potential disruption to critical services.
A stabilisation method was required that could address voiding and reinstate ground support with minimal surface disturbance and without affecting ongoing operations.
Geobear designed a targeted geopolymer injection programme tailored to the identified void locations. Small‑diameter injection points were installed through the hardstanding at defined centres based on site investigation findings.
The two‑component geopolymer was injected at depth, where it expanded to fill voids, bind loose material and improve bearing capacity. Controlled expansion ensured stabilisation without inducing detrimental movement in adjacent structures or services.
The works were completed using compact plant and a minimal site footprint, allowing substation operations to continue throughout the intervention.
The voiding mechanism was addressed and ground support reinstated without excavation. Surface stability was restored and the risk of further settlement reduced.
Delivery was completed within the agreed programme, maintaining operational continuity and avoiding the disruption, cost and carbon associated with traditional dig‑out and replacement methods.
Get in touch with our expert team today and discover how Geobear can extend the life of your critical infrastructure assets.
