Sustainability in the context of vibro stone column ground improvement techniques

Natural aggregate resources are not unlimited and their extraction causes increasingly unacceptable geo-environmental impacts. As part of achieving environmental sustainability in ground improvement, there is an increasing desire to utilise recycled aggregates in vibro stone column techniques. Spent railway track ballast and crushed concrete probably have the greatest potential for this application in the UK. However, where such materials are considered for use it is important that they are “fit-for-purpose”. Some applications of recycled aggregate in the context of vibro stone columns are presented, including a case history for both spent railway track ballast and crushed concrete. Also presented is an innovative technique for avoiding pollutant linkages via stone columns using “vibro concrete plug” technology.