ABSTRACT
Traditional methods for the repair of cuttings have included slackening the slope by the provision of dwarf walls at the toe or the acquisition of additional land, although the latter is seldom possible. Other methods of repair can include soil nailing and/or the provision of reinforced soil berms to increase stability. As the failures are predominantly caused by the development of residual shear strength conditions or uncontrolled pore water pressures, an obvious remedial method would be to effect a reduction in pore pressures and an increase in the shear strength of the soil. This can be achieved by electroosmosis as part of an electrokinetic treatment. Electroosmosis can be used, either to aid construction of remedial works or as a means to effect permanent improvement. A major advantage of the process is that it can be installed without excavation of the cutting and with the use of limited equipment. Treatment is rapid and the strengthening can be permanent.
