Electrokinetic Slope Stabilisation

Synopsis

Failed and failing slopes along linear transport infrastructure present particular challenges, including variable ground conditions, difficult access, limited ground investigation information, ageing assets and the effects of a changing climate. Conventional remediation may require several different techniques or a single solution applied across the full slope extent, both of which can lead to inefficient use of resources.

Electrokinetic Slope Stabilisation provides an adaptable and low-impact approach by combining three stabilising functions within one system: electroosmotic ground improvement to increase in-situ soil strength, reinforcement of the improved soil in a manner similar to soil nailing, and long-term drainage to reduce groundwater pressures. The technique makes efficient use of installed elements by allowing them to contribute in different ways and at different stages of the works.

Construction typically involves installing anode rods and cathode drains, followed by temporary cabling and any required surface drainage, active electrokinetic treatment over approximately 6–8 weeks,…