DIAPHRAGM WALL

They are underground structural elements commonly used for retention systems and permanent
foundations wall.

Code used for design: IS-14344:1996 Design & Construction of diaphragm for seepage control.
 SLURRY TRENCH METHOD

• The slurry trench method involves the excavation of alternating panels along the proposed wall,
using bentonite slurry to prevent the slides of the excavation from collapsing.
• The technique involves excavating a narrow trench that is kept full of an engineered fluid/slurry.
• Slurry exerts hydraulic pressure against the trench walls and acts as shoring to prevent collapse.
• Slurry excavation can be constructed in all types of soil, even below the water table.
• 100 to 250 mm
thick.
• 1-2 m depth.
• Lightly
reinforced.
 PROCEDURE

• Construction of concrete or sheet guide walls .

• The excavation is done using thin grab clamshell.
• Bentonite slurry is then pumped into the trench to provide temporary support and a prefabricated
reinforcing cage is lowered in.
• Stop ends are installed on both sides to confine the concrete poured in the next stage and give shape such
that it can be interlocked with the next panel.
• Bentonite slurry is replaced by concrete and sequence proceed to next panel.
EXCAVATION OF DIAPHRAGM WALL
STOP ENDS
LOWERING OF PREFABRICATED REINFORCING CAGE