Presentation and key elements
What is it?
Stones columns, also known as aggregate piers, reinforce the soil with a grid of compacted semi-rigid columns. Menard uses a vibratory probe that penetrates the soft soils to the necessary depth. These vertical inclusions can be made of stone, or other recycled construction material and are installed in a grid pattern beneath the structure.
When and why use it?
Stone columns are well suited for the improvement of soft or loose soils as they create vertical inclusions with high stiffness, shear strength and draining characteristics. The result is an increased bearing capacity and a reduction of the total and differential settlements. They are particularly effective for improving slope stability and preventing liquefaction by increasing the ground’s shear strength.
💡 Menard’s tip
The ability to install Stone Columns with cranes, makes this technique highly effective in the nearshore and offshore environments.
