Bi-Modulus Columns

What is it?

Bi-modulus columns are a combination of stone columns and the CMC technique. First, CMCs are installed in the ground. Then, stone columns interpenetrate the CMC heads thus creating a hybrid StoneCMC column.

When and why use it?

Bi-modulus columns combine the advantages of both techniques and can be applied to very soft soils where a stone column solution could not work due to the lack of lateral confinement and the risk of bulging. Bi-modulus columns result in an increased bearing capacity, reduction of total and differential settlements as well as improved stress distribution from the structure to the inclusions which leads to an optimization of the thickness of the load transfer platform between the structure and the inclusions.

Bi-modulus columns are particularly effective in cases of deep cut-off, to avoid unwanted moments in slabs on backfill or in a seismic zone. The features of this solution have led to an exponential growth in the use of the technique since it was developed.

💡 Menard’s tip

In 2009, Menard developed a specification for this technique that we are now using on every project.