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WuXi AppTec
Project Overview
GeoStructures performed a geotechnical investigation with detailed site characterization. Results showed a 25-ft thick, soft, high-plasticity silt layer across the site attributed to its close proximity to the Delaware River. This layer is sandwiched between two alluvial sand layers. Laboratory CRS consolidation testing of high-quality Shelby tubes confirmed the high compressibility of this layer. When loaded by the proposed building foundations and slab, this deposit would have caused a 16-inch settlement over a 4-year period. In order to construct shallow foundations, the silt layer needed improvement. Otherwise, a more expensive pile foundation with a structural slab system would have been required to support the building.
The ground improvement consisted of surcharging and strip (wick) drains. The design was optimized considering (1) the cost of the additional fill needed to construct a higher surcharge embankment and (2) the cost of installing wick drains to achieve the desired waiting period. The optimum design consisted of constructing a 10-ft high embankment with 6-ft spaced wick drains. The system was left to settle over a 6-month waiting period. The surcharge height was later increased to 20 ft in order to affect the removal of settlement for a mechanical room that was conceived at a later stage. Once the preloading was confirmed to have achieved its intended objectives, the surcharge was cut back to the proposed subgrade and building construction began.
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Our Comprehensive Project Workflow: Step-by-Step Guide
Initial Consultation and Client Needs Assessment
Our team responds promptly to your inquiries, ensuring timely communication and immediate attention to your project needs. We work closely with clients to understand all project requirements, ensuring that we capture every detail and objective from the start.
Development of Work Plan
Our expert project managers extend innovative problem-solving to project planning, resulting in technically-sound, cost-effective work plans to better serve our clients.
Project Proposal and Agreement
We provide a detailed project proposal outlining the scope of work, fee schedule, and agreement terms. The project begins once the proposal is approved.
Execution and Quality Assurance
Our highly skilled team of principals, project managers, engineers, and field staff execute the project with precision, maintaining open communication to ensure alignment with client expectations. Each project undergoes a rigorous quality check by our team of licensed professional engineers, ensuring all deliverables meet our high standards of excellence.
Project Delivery and Invoicing
Upon completion, we deliver the final project and issue an invoice for the completed work, ensuring full transparency and satisfaction.
