Trenchmix®

Trenchmix® is a Deep Soil Mixing (DSM) process used to construct continuous, linear cut-off walls, where the soil is mixed in situ with a binder.

Trenchmix panels are executed using a chain trencher mixing tool. During operation, the soil structure is continuously broken down while the binder (e.g. bentonite slurry) is simultaneously injected. The result is a continuous barrier with a thickness of approx. 40 cm, formed as a homogeneous composite with low permeability properties. The quality of the executed panel and the achievement of high performance parameters are ensured by adjusting the mixing speed, the binder dosage, and the machine advance rate to the specific ground conditions.

Applications of Trenchmix® technology

  • Continuous cut-off walls.
  • Sealing of flood protection embankments and containment systems for landfill sites. 
  • Slope stabilisation of embankments using parallel shear walls.
  • Temporary excavation support combined with structural reinforcement elements such as steel profiles, pipes and/or columns.

Environmental performance of Trenchmix® technology 

  • Reduced consumption of natural resources such as water, cement and aggregates, as these are partially replaced by the in-situ soil.
  • Minimal spoil generation or none at all, resulting in less material to be removed from site and reduced CO₂ emissions related to transport.
  • Immobilisation of soil contaminants through in situ treatment with binders.
  • No need for soil excavation (digging, dredging, etc.), which reduces the risk of contaminant migration into the natural environment.

Advantages of Trenchmix®

• Very high erosion resistance.
• Excellent final hydraulic permeability. Sealing performance is better than for cement-bentonite cut-off walls.
• Low environmental impact.
• Continuous, jointless (monolithic) soil improvement/sealing.
• Suitable for sites with restricted headroom.
• Fast and efficient process.
• High homogeneity – the soil-cement mix remains uniform over the full depth of the cut-off wall/trench.
• No vibrations affecting nearby existing structures.