As a civil engineer, you are likely no stranger to the use of diaphragm walls in complex structures. Although the use of this type of wall structure has obvious benefits, there are also potential drawbacks to consider before using them in your projects. In this blog post, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of diaphragm walls, outlining key points to remember for civil engineers considering their use.
Advantages of Diaphragm Walls
- Structural stability: Diaphragm walls provide excellent structural stability and are capable of resisting lateral loads from soil and water pressure, making them suitable for deep excavations.
- Water tightness: They offer effective water cut-off, preventing groundwater seepage into excavated areas and protecting structures against water-related damage.
- Flexibility: Diaphragm walls can be constructed in various soil conditions, including soft soils and groundwater, making them adaptable to different project requirements.
- Space-saving: Diaphragm walls occupy less surface area compared to other retention systems like sheet piles, allowing for more efficient land use.
- Durability: Constructed with high-quality materials such as reinforced concrete, diaphragm walls are long-lasting and can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
- Can be used in a variety of soil conditions
- low vibration during the construction
- Speed of erection
- Can be constructed at very high depths
- Can bear very high loads
- Good seismic performance
Disadvantages of Diaphragm Walls:
- Cost: Diaphragm wall construction can be expensive due to the need for specialized equipment, experienced personnel, and extensive excavation work.
- Construction time: The installation of diaphragm walls is time-consuming, especially for deep excavations or in challenging ground conditions.
- Limited accessibility: Diaphragm walls create a barrier that restricts access for subsequent construction activities until the excavation is completed, potentially causing logistical challenges.
- Soil disturbance: During wall installation, vibrations and noise can be generated, potentially impacting adjacent structures and causing disturbance to the surrounding environment.
- Design limitations: Diaphragm walls have limitations in terms of maximum depth and width, depending on the soil conditions and equipment available, which may require additional design considerations for very deep or wide excavations
As with any type of construction project, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of diaphragm walls before deciding if they are the right solution for your project. In many cases, the benefits of using diaphragm walls far outweigh the potential drawbacks, but it is still important to be aware of all potential risks before proceeding.
