Full-scale field tests for bridging sinkholes using flexible steel components as reinforcement

• Autores: Daniel Flum, Armin Roduner, John Kalejta
• Localización: Carbonates and Evaporites, ISSN 0891-2556, Vol. 27, Nº. 2, 2012 (Ejemplar dedicado a: Integrating Science and Engineering to Solve Karst Problems, Part I), págs. 161-165
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • In the framework of a doctoral thesis and in collaboration with the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus, Germany, full-scale field tests were carried out in Goldach, Switzerland, to check the functionality and the behavior of a new system with flexible steel components as reinforcement. Considering the aim of reducing risk due to sinkholes and finding a cost-effective solution, the system should be allowed to deform in the case of an event to make the critical section visually perceptible while not endangering road users. Therefore, the maximum allowed deflection depends on project-specific requirements. Compared to a rigid structure, a flexible component can react promptly to prevent a progressive breaking away of the subsoil. In the tests, an asphalt load-bearing layer as well as a concrete slab with a thickness of 0.20 m each were used. The modeled sinkhole exhibited a rectangular hollow with a free span width of 3.0 m. A total loading of 30.4 metric tons resulted in a depression in the center of the slab of ~0.20 m. The sinkhole protection system was installed right below the binder course and consists of a combination of linear bearing elements combined with a high-tensile steel wire mesh for force distribution.