Infrastructure
When developing spatial plans, the emphasis in the initial planning phase has until now been firmly on management and planning issues. Subjects such as sustainability, technical feasibility, the effects on the water system, and risks are only considered at a much later date. This is unfortunate as a wide range of opportunities are missed. Maximum benefit can, in fact, be achieved in the early planning phases. Considering the risks and subsequently selecting a particular solution at the very start of a decision-making process is usually far cheaper than being forced to implement corrective measures at a later stage. This is true in all areas, whether it is the construction of an underground car park in an urban area, development of a new industrial site, or a new residential area in a site with soft soil.
Delft Cluster is carrying out five research projects that focus on developing tools to assist decision-makers during planning processes, such as decision-supporting models, simulations, risk management tools, and models and methods to determine the effects of spatial choices on the water system. These projects are:
Products of knowledge
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What is it?
A soil improvement technique that strengthens sand layers in soil by means of bacteria. It involves an in-situ cementation process whereby lime crystals become ‘attached’ to sand grains. This increases the stiffness and strength of the soil whilst maintaining the permeability.
What can we use this for?
To strengthen a soil on a pilot scale, with minimal disturbance. Because permeability is maintained, it is possible to repeatedly treat soil across large distances (minimum 5 m). The process can be carried out up to any required strength (from 200kPa through to 30 Mpa), where more lime provides more strength.
Who will be interested?
Building contractors, water boards, municipalities.
More information
wouter.vanderstar@deltares.nl
hans.groot@deltares.nl
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What is it?
A soil improvement technique to stabilise peat soils. The peat fibres are processed in situ by means of silification reactions. This increases the strength of the peat so that it is less sensitive to settlement. Because the fibres become encapsulated, the probability of biological and chemical oxidation is substantially reduced.
What can we use this for?
By improving the strength of peat, without soil settlement, it becomes possible to build on peat without having settlement problems. As oxidation of the peat is also prevented, fluctuations in the groundwater level have no negative effect on the strength and shape of the peat. This process is currently still in the research stage, and will therefore not be used on a large scale over the next few years.
Who will be interested?
Municipalities, building contractors, rail owners.
More information
dianne.denhamer@deltares.nl
hans.groot@deltares.nl
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