Roadways and bridge abutments are both at the mercy of the elements. From soil erosion to shifting and settling, many aspects may affect the overall performance of these critical components. Polyurethan foam is a viable solution for stabilizing roadways and abutments, whether that means installing foam during construction or repairing existing infrastructure.
Foam helps to improve slope stability through attributes like:
- A lightweight consistency that reduces weight and pressure on sublayers.
- Strength and durability that offer improved stability to slopes and abutments.
- On-site installation that’s easier and more cost-effective compared to some alternatives.
How to Increase Slope Stability With Foam
Polyurethane foam can improve soil stability in several ways. One is to use polyurethane grout, which saturates the spaces between soil granules and changes the soil composition. Another option is to inject polyurethane plural component foam into the sublayers beneath the road.
Sometimes, a slope requires multiple foam injections along the incline to ensure sufficient stability from the peak to the base. The technique may differ significantly based on the type of foam used and the intended results. Some foams raise concrete and foundations, others fill voids and air gaps and others are only responsible for providing stability.
The main uses of polyurethane foam in this application are to solidify the slope, reduce pressure and the likelihood of slope failure and reinforce the slope structure to improve stability.
HMI Solutions for Improved Slope Stability
Now that you know how to increase slope stability with foam, below are specific products you can use for these applications.
Deep Foamjection™
Foam injections improve the soil below abutments, roadways and other structures. They reduce erosion, improve structure and fill ground voids to enhance slope stability. Unlike most ground-raising foams, this foam is installed at a much deeper level to enhance effectiveness.
RR401 Concrete-Raising Foam
This foam is used to repair, raise and stabilize roads and structures. Its density of 4 lb. per cubic foot offers excellent efficiency and curing speed while exceeding Department of Transportation (DOT) specifications.
RR601 Infrastructure Repair Foam
Developed specifically to meet the stringent requirements set by the DOT, this foam has a density of 6 lb. per cubic foot. It can withstand the pressures of heavy-load vehicles and high-traffic conditions.
Benefits of Using HMI Foam to Improve Slope Stability
When you work with HMI to improve slope stability, our foam products offer significant advantages, including:
- Reduced downtime: Installing polyurethane foam directly into the layers beneath the roadway or abutment minimizes the disruption and time required to support or level roadways.
- Versatile application: Whether you need to level a road or stabilize pavement, our products provide a solution. They range from foams with lifting abilities to those that only provide support and stability.
- Industry-leading technology: HMI offers some of the leading technologies in this industry, from the EliteONE gun — which purges air during installation — to trailers, vans and accessories that simplify installation.
Prevent Slope Failure With HMI
HMI has all the equipment, materials and products required to keep highways in peak condition and prevent slope failure. Contact us if you’re ready to begin repairing and stabilizing a roadway or bridge abutment with HMI. We offer the support and supplies contractors require to perform at their best.