In a significant breakthrough for civil engineering, the construction of long-span bridge bearing platforms in challenging deep and thick silt interlayers has been meticulously analyzed in a recent study. The research, led by Kang Yang from The Fourth Engineering Company, addresses the myriad challenges associated with such complex projects, particularly focusing on the main pier bearing platform for the new Yue-Dong Bridge.
Constructing in silt presents unique obstacles, including difficult pit excavation and a high risk of foundation pit base uplift. Yang emphasized the importance of innovative solutions, stating, “Our approach involved a combination of advanced technologies and methodologies to ensure the integrity and safety of the construction process.” The study highlights the selection of an optimal cofferdam scheme, ultimately opting for a combined structure that integrates underwater high-pressure rotary piling and steel sheet piles. This strategic choice not only reinforced the foundation but also mitigated the risks associated with construction in unstable soil conditions.
One of the standout innovations from this research is the development of an underwater high-pressure rotary piling fast reinforcement construction process, which significantly enhances the structural stability of the foundation. Coupled with a “four-stage dry bottom sealing” strategy, this method effectively addresses the uplift risks that are prevalent in such environments.
Moreover, the research tackles the common issue of cracking in large-volume concrete, often exacerbated by the heat of hydration. Yang and his team proposed a robust temperature control strategy that was implemented during construction. “Real-time monitoring was crucial,” Yang noted, “not only for ensuring safety but also for verifying compliance with our temperature control standards.” The real-time monitoring of both the cofferdam and the temperature of the concrete has proven essential in maintaining construction integrity and safety.
The implications of this research extend far beyond the Yue-Dong Bridge project. As the construction sector increasingly faces the challenges posed by difficult geological conditions, the methodologies and technologies developed in this study offer invaluable insights for future projects. By adopting these innovative approaches, construction firms can enhance their project outcomes, reduce risks, and ultimately drive down costs.
The findings of this research are published in ‘Advances in Civil Engineering’, a journal that continues to showcase pioneering work in the field. For more information about the lead author and his work, you can visit The Fourth Engineering Company. As the construction industry evolves, studies like this will undoubtedly shape the future of infrastructure development, paving the way for safer, more efficient construction practices in challenging environments.
