Diaphragm walls are cast in-situ, concrete elements walls.They can serve as soil- and/or water-retaining structures and are capable of transferring large loads. Typical wall thicknesses are 0.40-0.60-0.80-1.00-1.20 and 1.50 metres, and large depths up to 60 metres can be attained. It is possible to work close to adjacent structures and integrate the walls with the final structure. Large retaining heights and high foundation loads can be attained. The trenches are dug using a special rope suspended grab. The stability of the trench during excavation is guaranteed by introducing bentonite and water. When the trench has reached the desired depth, the bentonite suspension inside is de-sanded and replaced by a clean slurry. Next, the joint sections and rebar reinforcement are inserted. The rebar cage has an open construction to guarantee proper adhesion to the concrete. In addition, spacers are placed to guarantee the required clearance to the side of the trench. The joint sections provide a good connection to the adjacent panel and are provided with waterstops to reduce the permeability to a minimum between the different panels of the wall. A tremie pipe is inserted inside the cage. Concrete is poured directly in the tremie pipe from the concrete mixer, using the contractor method. When casting has finished and the concrete has cured enough to be able to carry its own weight, the joint pipes are withdrawn.There are two principles for constructing slurry walls:the starter-follower method and the primary-secondary method. There also are multiple joint section systems.These must be selected in advance.
Diaphragm walls can be applied for e.q.:
Name of project |
Client |
Krimpen aan de Lek, Riverbank reinforcement |
GMB Civiel |
Bergambacht, Embankment reinforcement Bergambacht-Ammerstol-Schoonhoven |
Waterauthority Schieland - Krimpenerwaard |
Delft, Motorway A4 |
Construction consortium A4All |
Nijmegen, Upgrading pilons railway bridge |
Prorail |
Venlo, Construction pit Stadskantoor |
Ballast Nedam Funderingstechnieken |
Lekkerkerk, Riverbank reinforcement Nederlek |
Waterauthority Schieland - Krimpenerwaard |
Scheveningen, Reinforcement Boulevard |
Combinatie Zeefront v.o.f. |
Emmen, Construction pit Parking garage Westerstraat |
Strukton Civiel Projecten |
Veenendaal, Parking garage De Tricotage |
Welling Didam |
Rotterdam Maasvlakte, Quay wall Maasvlakte 2 |
Comb. Van Hattum en Blankevoort / BAM Civiel |