Chemical Grouting is a form of permeation grouting. Solution grouts that are commonly used include acrylamides, polyurethanes, acrylates, epoxies and sodium silicates. There are two major types of chemical grouting: structural and water control.
Structural chemical grouting, when used in granular soils, permeates the spaces between the soil particles, binds the particles together, and improves the soil’s bearing capacity.
Structural grouting is also used to repair fractures in concrete and rock. When injected into the cracks, the solution grout fills gaps with a powerful adhesive, forms a waterproof bond, repairs the integrity of a rock or concrete structure, and could be the least expensive means to seal joints and fractures.
Water control chemical grout is frequently used to stop water movement in granular soil or rock. Grout is injected under pressure and fills the spaces between soil particles. This forms a waterproof mass at the injection point. When injection points are laid-out in a well-designed grid pattern, these masses interconnect to form an underground curtain that prevents fluid migration.
Water control chemical grouting is also widely used as an economical means to stop leaks in mines, tunnels, underground tanks, elevator shafts, and around underground conduits and pipes. Holes are drilled, grout is injected along the flow paths, flow paths are sealed, and water flow through them is prevented. The work may be conducted from either the interior or exterior of a structure, depending on access restrictions.
