Sunday, November 17

Morning Courses

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Diaphragm Wall Design and Construction

Instructors: Benjamin Giacometti, Nicholson Construction; Mohamed Elgouhary, Treviicos Corporation; Meeok Kim, Thornton Tomasetti

Diaphragm walls are becoming increasingly prevalent in the foundation industry because they provide solutions for challenges posed by constructing deep excavations.  Diaphragm wall construction involves unique means and methods, and so their design and installation must account for special considerations. This short course will present practical aspects of the design and construction of diaphragm walls, including means and methods, design approaches, and QA/QC procedures commonly used in the industry. Case histories will also be presented. 

Afternoon Courses

1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Mechanically Stabilized Earth Structures: Design, Critical Considerations, and Advancements

Instructors: Robert Johnson, Submatrix LLC; Robert Gladstone, Association for Mechanically Stabilized Earth

This workshop will equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to design and implement effective and innovative mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) structures.  The workshop begins with an introduction to MSE structures, followed by an exploration of fundamental design concepts, including geotechnical properties, loading conditions, and material selection, illustrated through case studies of successful projects.  Critical design considerations will be discussed, including stability analyses, seismic design, settlement, and drainage, and regulatory requirements and codes will be presented.  The content will highlight recent advancements in MSE design, focusing on innovations in reinforcement materials, state-of-the-art design methodologies, and sustainability considerations. An interactive design exercise will be presented.

Introduction to Advanced Earth Retention Techniques: Ground Freezing, Soil Mixing, Jet Grouting

Instructors: Paul Schmall, Dennis Boehm, Joe Sopko, Max Pucciarello, Keller North America

Ground improvement methods are often utilized for both groundwater control and support of excavation for underground construction.  This short course will focus on the three most common ground improvement techniques for such purposes; jet grouting, soil mixing, and ground freezing.  The presentations will cover applications, design approaches, materials, construction procedures, and quality control and assurance methods.  Direction will be provided to help attendees recognize the project and subsurface conditions in which these techniques are appropriate and special considerations to ensure safe, successful projects.