Ground Improvement via Vacuum Consolidation Method in Vietnam

Abstract

In recent years, vacuum consolidation method has been extensively used in Vietnam on various types of infrastructural projects. The main reason for adopting this method is that the construction cost is relatively close to the conventional prefabricated vertical drain method with less surcharge fill and shorter construction time. Hauling or transporting large amount of fill has been a major problem in most infrastructure projects. With the stringent settlement requirements specified by the Vietnamese Government, ground improvement via vacuum consolidation has become very popular hence attracting various International vacuum consolidation specialists to participate in Vietnamese projects. This paper describes the vacuum consolidation design and the construction practice in Vietnam along with some examples on the performance of vacuum consolidation works for highway projects.