The deep soil mixing for the Galataport project in Istanbul, Turkey

Abstract

The paper describes the adopted technologies and performance controls related to a special geotechnical engineering solution provided within the scope of the Galataport Project, in Istanbul, Turkey. The scheme is the one applied to the new quay of Salıpazarı, which is a combination of retaining structure and ground improvement, formed by a combi-wall, a reinforced concrete diaphragm wall and a soil improvement by deep soil mixing (Turbojet). The paper highlights the importance of employing cutting-edge technologies within the foundation engineering field and state-of-the-art electronic control devices, in parallel with the essential human expertise, in order to obtain the desired results in this high-profile Project. A cross section of the executed treatment could be inspected on site during excavation, which shows the effectiveness of the executed works. The results of the in-situ and laboratory tests carried out on the improved soil during the preliminary field trial test and after the completion of works are also presented.

Keywords:

• Ground improvement
• Deep Soil Mixing
• Electronic control devices
• Seismic tomography

Acknowledgments

The authors appreciated the continuous assistance provided by the Client and their Geotechnical Consultant ENAR. The geophysical investigation at the site was executed by PROGEO S.r.L, while all laboratory tests were conducted at Istanbul Technical University.