A review of polyurethane as a ground improvement method

Abstract

Ground improvement based on lightweight materials is commonly applied as a method to overcome the problem related to excessive and differential settlement. The application of polyurethane (PU) as a ground improvement work currently increases in demand due to its well performance in many ground improvement projects. The properties and strength of different types of PU available in the market, together with the safety issues and precautions are highlighted in this paper. Due to its lightweight properties, buoyancy behavior of the lightweight foam often causes uplift which jeopardize the stability of the existing structure. Since it is applied in the ground, awareness on PU degradation needs to be emphasized. The suitability and applications of PU as one of alternative method for ground improvement works are also highlighted in this paper.