Proposed Grout Mix Design and Application Orientation of Silicate-Cement Injection in Project Management for Seepage Control in Sandy Foundations of Hydraulic Structures

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of Silicate-Cement grout mixtures for emergency seepage control in sandy foundations of hydraulic structures. Laboratory experiments were conducted to assess the effects of three key parameters: Silicate-to-Cement (S/C) ratio, Water-to-Cement (W/C) ratio, and Silicate-Cement solution to Sand (S-S-C/Sand) ratio on gelation time, compressive strength, and permeability. The findings reveal that each factor significantly influences the material’s workability, seepage resistance, and mechanical performance. The optimal mix designs for different technical objectives were determined, including fast gelation for emergency situations, effective soil reinforcement for loose sand foundations, and sealing fine voids. The Silicate-Cement system provides rapid gelation, excellent penetrability, and controllable setting times, making it ideal for use in urgent foundation treatments in regions prone to high seepage velocities. This paper also discusses the potential applications of Silicate-Cement grout for enhancing hydraulic infrastructure and other civil engineering projects under challenging geological conditions. The study contributes to standardizing techniques and optimizing grout mix compositions for practical implementation in Vietnam, aiming to improve construction efficiency and environmental sustainability in seepage control.