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Diaphragm wall

A diaphragm wall is a vertical underground wall that varies in depth and thickness, consisting of panels, either alternating or continuous, that are able to absorb axial loads, horizontal thrusts, and bending moments.

The wall may have a static or hydraulic cutoff function, and can be made of plain or reinforced concrete, pre-cast or plastic, according to its intended scope.

Chesepeake Bay Bridge and Tunnel - Virginia Beach / USA
Slurry (Diaphragm) Wall with the use of a Hydromill and Jet grouting.

BRASFOND PERFORMS REAL TIME MONITORING OF THE VERTICALITY OF THE EXCAVATED DIAPHRAGM WALL PANELS

Initially used in the construction of cutoffs for dams to intercept seepage flows, a diaphragm wall is often built as a solution for difficult projects:

  • Retaining walls for excavations in underground construction areas , even when in the vicinity of existing buildings;
  • Construction of underground galleries and subways;
  • Polygonal shape for the construction of underground reservoirs and shafts;
  • Functioning as a deep foundations element;
  • Containment structures to prevent landslides;
  • To encapsulate contaminated areas;
  • Protection of bridge foundations;
  • Port facilities (quays).

Besides the above, one of their most widespread applications is the channeling of rivers and streams. With safety, economy, speed and minor disturbance of urban traffic, floods can be prevented by widening a channel, thus lowering the river bed and consequently increasing its flow.



Diaphragm Wall with Hydromill – Vila Sônia Station - Linha 4 Amarela - São Paulo Subway




Types of Diaphragm wall

The diaphragm walls can be performed in three different ways, applied as a result of the needs of each project:

  • Cast 'in situ'
  • Pre-cast
  • Plastic (cement-bentonite or "coulis" )
São Paulo Subway - Santo Amaro Station - São Paulo / Brazil
Plastic Diaphragm Wall.

Learn more about the Diaphragm wall

Specifications, construction sequences, differences between each type of diaphragm wall.

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