Vibroflotation Compaction of Cohesionless Soils

Abstract

Vibroflotation uses a horizontally vibrating probe to densify in-situ cohesionless soils with simultaneous vibration and saturation. The method is described in general terms and each factor affecting the density achieved is analyzed in detail. An example test program is presented which was used to investigate the influence of in-situ soil type, backfill gradation, probe withdrawal rate, and probe spacing on the densities achieved. The densities achieved decreased with increasing probe withdrawal rate and probe spacing. Coarse granular soils were easier to compact and were more suitable backfill material than fine granular soils. A rating system is presented for evaluating the suitability of alternate backfill materials. Recommended inspection and quality control procedures are provided for verifying that adequate densities have been achieved.