What is Grouting and types of grouting ?

Grouting and types of grouting

In this article, I discussed what is grouting and the types of grouting in detail. 

Grouting is a construction process that involves injecting grout material into the ground to improve soil or rock qualities, provide structural support, or seal leaks in underground structures. The manner of grouting used is determined by the desired outcome as well as the features of the ground being treated. In this section, we'll go through five distinct grouting methods in depth:

Type of groutings:-

  • Permeation grouting
  • Compaction grouting
  • Contact grouting
  • Jet grouting
  • Electro grouting

  • Permeation Grouting 

Permeation grouting is a technique for increasing soil strength and decreasing permeability by injecting a low-viscosity grout into the ground. 

This method is commonly used to stabilise granular soils like sands and gravels. 

The following steps are included in the procedure:

1. Drilling

Depending on the project needs, boreholes are first drilled into the earth at certain intervals and depths.

2. Grout Injection

A low-viscosity grout, often made of water, cement, and additives, is injected into boreholes at low pressure. This grout penetrates the surrounding earth, filling cavities and strengthening it.

3. Grout Expansion

As grout spreads across the soil, it displaces water and binds soil particles together. The grout then hardens and settles, further stabilising the soil.

Permeation grouting is often used in construction projects to enhance the ground in preparation for building foundations or to alleviate the impacts of settlement.

  • Compaction grouting

Compaction grouting is used to improve the density and strength of soils, as well as to elevate and support structures that have settled as a result of weak or compressible soils. 

The following steps are included in the procedure:

1. Drilling

Boreholes are drilled into the earth beneath the structure or in specific regions, similar to permeation grouting.

2. Grout Injection

Under high pressure, a thick, low-mobility grout, commonly made of cement and sand, is injected into boreholes. This high-pressure injection approach aids in the compacting and densification of the surrounding soil.

3. Lifting and Support

When a structure is being lifted, pressurised grout can be used to elevate and support the foundation or structure, compensating for settling.

It is widely used to support existing structures, improve soil carrying capacity, and reduce vibration.


  • Contact Grouting 

Contact grouting, also known as base grouting or curtain grouting, is a method of preventing water infiltration by forming a grout curtain or seal around subsurface structures. This technique is commonly used in tunnelling, mining, and dam construction. 

The procedure entails the following steps:

1. Drilling

Boreholes are drilled around the structure's or excavation area's perimeter.

2. Grout Injection 

A viscous, impermeable grout, typically made of cement and additives, is injected into boreholes. This forms a continuous barrier or curtain of grout surrounding the structure, keeping water from entering.

3. Sealing 

The grout hardens and provides a watertight seal, preventing water entry into the subsurface structure.

Contact grouting is critical for subsurface construction stability and durability.

Read about Cement grouting 

  •  Jet Grouting

Jet grouting is a versatile technique for constructing soil columns or cut-off walls of different strength and geometry. It's very useful in difficult soil conditions. 

The procedure entails the following steps:

1. Drilling

A borehole is drilled into the ground using a high-pressure jet grout rig.

2. Grout Injection

High-pressure jets of grout (often cement, water, and occasionally additives) are injected into the earth while the drill rotates and withdraws. This results in a soil-cement column or wall with various degrees of strength and impermeability.

3. Column or Wall Formation

Depending on the needs of the project, the jet grouting technique can form columns, walls, or other geometric structures. Over time, the grout hardens to offer structural support or confinement.

Jet grouting is used for various applications, including soil improvement, underpinning, excavation support, and environmental remediation.

  • Electro grouting 
Electro grouting is a specialised technology that enhances the grouting process by using electrical currents. It is largely used in electrokinetic geotechnology to improve soil characteristics and transfer impurities in the subsurface. 

Typically, the procedure entails:

1. Electroosmotic Flow
Electrodes are buried and an electric potential is applied between them. This causes a regulated electroosmotic movement of water and ions in the soil, which can be used to shift contaminants or improve soil qualities.

2. Ion Migration
Ions migrate through the soil as an electric current passes through it, either strengthening soil structure or delivering toxins to collecting locations for treatment.

In geotechnical engineering, elelectro-groutings frequently utilised for ground improvement or environmental rehabilitation in hazardous situations.


What is Grouting and types of grouting ? What is Grouting and types of grouting ? Reviewed by Digitech education on September 14, 2023 Rating: 5

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