Slurry Wall

Slurry walls are structural or non-structural elements constructed underground. Structural slurry walls are used to retain soil and to provide soil support during excavation, while non-structural slurry walls or trenches are typically used to control the underground water flow.

During excavation, the hole is kept filled with slurry (a mixture of bentonite and water) to provide hydrostatic pressure that prevents collapse. Structural slurry walls are constructed by lowering reinforcing cage into the slurry pit and consequently filling the pit with concrete, which displaces the slurry. During excavation of surrounding soil, lateral support is provided by tie backs or struts.

External Links

• slurrywall.com - A technical resource for Slurry Wall Construction, Slurry Trenches and Cut-Off Walls
• Video of slurry wall construction
• Slurry Wall Construction (by Hayward Baker)
• Wikipedia