Theoretical Analysis of Pile Tip and Pile Side Compaction Grouting and Grout Diffusion Height Considering Unloading Effect

Abstract

This study introduces a unified cylindrical and spherical cavity reverse expansion model to simulate the formation of compaction grouting bodies and grout diffusion along pile shafts. Stress field expression employs the superposition method, while displacement field analysis utilizes the nonassociated Mohr–Coulomb criterion. By combining the displacement expression for cylindrical cavity reverse expansion with the fluid flow equation, a calculation method is proposed to compute the upward and downward diffusion heights of grout, considering the unloading effect. The parameter analysis demonstrates that ultimate grouting pressure increases with increasing soil strength and grouting depth, with the ultimate grouting pressure at the pile tip being greater than that at the pile side. The value of grout diffusion height is negatively correlated with unloading ratio and grouting depth while positively correlated with grouting pressure and pile diameter. The deeper the grouting depth, the greater the impact of unloading on grout diffusion height. Three case studies validate the effectiveness of the proposed model. Analysis reveals that when grouting pressure exceeds the ultimate pressure, the size of the grout body is related to the grouting volume. Neglecting the unloading effect in the prediction of grout diffusion height for pile foundations would lead to conservative results.