8

Part 25

Slurry Wall Construction1

— 2012 —

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section/Article Description Page

25.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-2

25.1.1 Purpose (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-2
25.1.2 Scope (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-2
25.1.3 Terms (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-3
25.1.4 References (1988) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-3

25.2 Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-3

25.2.1 General (1988) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-3
25.2.2 Qualifications (2002) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-3
25.2.3 Subsurface Investigation (1988) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-3
25.2.4 Design for Construction Phase (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-4
25.2.5 Methods of Increasing Stability (1988) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-6
25.2.6 Final Condition (2012). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-6

25.3 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-7

25.3.1 Slurry (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-7
25.3.2 Bentonite (2002) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-8
25.3.3 Cement (2002) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-8
25.3.4 Water (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-8
25.3.5 Additives (2002) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-8
25.3.6 Backfill (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-8
25.3.7 Tremie Concrete (2012). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-9
25.3.8 Precast Panels (2002) R(2012). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-9
25.3.9 Permanent Joint Beams (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-9
25.3.10 Materials Quality Control (2012). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-9

25.4 Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-9

25.4.1 General (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-9
25.4.2 Trench Excavation (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-11
25.4.3 Slurry Material (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-11
25.4.4 Wall Construction (2002) R(2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-12
25.4.5 Inspection (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-13

1
References, Vol. 89, 1988, p. 114. Adopted 1988.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

8-25-1
Concrete Structures and Foundations

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT)

Section/Article Description Page

Commentary (2012) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-13

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Description Page

8-25-1 Forces in Non-Cohesive Soils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-6

C-8-25-1 Marsh Funnel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-14

LIST OF TABLES

Table Description Page

8-25-1 Backfill Gradation Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-9

8-25-2 Materials Quality Control Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25-10

SECTION 25.1 GENERAL

25.1.1 PURPOSE (2012)

These recommended practices apply to the use of bentonite slurry trenching techniques for the construction of underground
foundations and cutoff walls. Other materials such as polymers may be considered as an alternative to bentonite.

25.1.2 SCOPE (2012)

a. The use of bentonite slurry to permit deep, unshored excavation work is an effective construction method when
properly employed. The applicability of slurry trench techniques to any proposed site must be established by
subsurface investigation.

b. In practice, excavations are kept constantly filled with a bentonite slurry during both digging and backfilling
operations. The excavation is held open by the hydrostatic thrust of the slurry. Formation of an impermeable bentontitic
seal, or filter cake, at the trench interface prevents slurry loss and allows the development of the hydrostatic head.
Presence of slurry in the trench also prevents the drawdown of the ground water table, a frequent result of open
excavation.

c. Slurry applications include temporary and permanent construction of concrete foundation walls, both precast and cast-
in-place, and flow-controlling cutoff walls. Critical procedures such as cleaning the slurry, cleaning the bottom of the
trench and checking slurry density prior to placing tremie concrete should be considered.

d. The decision to use the slurry trench method on an excavation project, and the design of the appropriate slurry, must be
based on:

(1) Analysis of subsurface investigations.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

8-25-2 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering

 Slurry Wall Construction

(2) Soil stability analysis.

(3) Risk assessment.

(4) Site constraints.

(5) Economic alternatives analysis.

(6) Possible adverse effects of stray current on slurry quality.

25.1.3 TERMS (2012)

Bentonite - An ultra fine natural clay whose principal mineral constituent is premium-grade sodium cation montmorillonite.

Slurry - A stable colloidal suspension of hydrated bentonite or other suitable material in water used as a drilling or trenching
fluid.

Slurry Trench - A vertical trench excavation filled with slurry to support the trench sidewalls.

Slurry Wall - A semi-impervious barrier of blended soil or cement and bentonite with a hydraulic conductivity of 1 x 10-6
cm/sec or less, constructed using a slurry trench during excavation and backfilling.

Slurry Ponds - Ponds constructed for the purpose of storing mixed slurry.
1
25.1.4 REFERENCES (1988) R(2012)

References for Part 25, Slurry Wall Construction are found at the end of this chapter.

3
SECTION 25.2 DESIGN

25.2.1 GENERAL (1988) R(2012)

a. Slurry walls are designed in large part according to accepted foundation engineering practices; however, the interaction
of the slurry and the surrounding soil affects the stability and functionality of the wall to a much greater degree than in 4
most other structure types.

b. Slurry walls must be designed for both the construction and the final conditions. While the design for one condition
affects the other, different forces and criteria apply.

25.2.2 QUALIFICATIONS (2002) R(2012)

It is highly recommended that the engineer for the design of the slurry wall have previous experience in the design of slurry
trench construction.

25.2.3 SUBSURFACE INVESTIGATION (1988) R(2012)

Subsurface investigation prior to the design of the slurry system shall be in accordance with Part 22, Geotechnical Subsurface
Investigation. Additional information, such as permeability and pH of the soil, may also be required as part of this
investigation.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering 8-25-3

Concrete Structures and Foundations

25.2.4 DESIGN FOR CONSTRUCTION PHASE (2012)

25.2.4.1 Trench Design

Design of the slurry trench for the construction phase has the following objectives:

a. Provide stability of the trench during excavation.

b. Prevent drawdown of groundwater.

c. Minimize settlement of surrounding soil and structures bearing thereon.

d. Minimize loss of the slurry into the groundwater of particular concern in very porous soils.

e. Assurance of integrity of adjacent structures.

25.2.4.2 Stability Analysis

a. The hydrostatic pressure from the slurry in the trench provides the main stabilizing force to offset the pressures acting
on the trench walls. These include pressures due to:

(1) Soil loads;

(2) Surcharge loads, including structures and construction equipment;

(3) Fluid pressures due to groundwater.

b. The factor of safety of the trench, with respect to stability based on these pressures, is calculated as follows:

Pf
F. S. = ----------------
-
Pa + Ps

 H
where P f = H f  f  -----f-
 2

(1) For cohesive soils

 2
H
P a = --------- – 2S u H
2

Ps = qs H

Assuming Ø = 0

(2) For non-cohesive soils (Figure 8-25-1).

Pa = P1 + P2 + P3 + Pw

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

8-25-4 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering

 Slurry Wall Construction

 H – Hw 
P 1 =  H – H w K a ----------------------
 -
2

P 2 =  H – H w K a  H w 


Hw
P 3 =  H w K a -------
 -
2

Hw
P w = H w  w -------
-
2

2 2 2 
 H – Hw    Hw 
   Hw  w
P a = ------------------------- K a  + H w  H – H w K a +---------------  K a  + ----------------------
2 2 2

Ps = Ka qs H

where:

Su = Undrained Shear Strength

qs = Surcharge Loading
H = Depth of Trench
Hf = Depth of Slurry
Hw = Depth of Water Table Above Bottom of Trench
 = Unit Weight of Soil
f = Unit Weight of Slurry
w = Unit Weight of Water
’ = Unit Weight of Submerged Soil
Ka = Active Coefficient
Pa = Active Pressure 4
Ps = Pressure Due to Surcharge
Pf = Slurry Pressure
Pw = Pressure Due to Groundwater
Ø= Angle of Internal Friction

c. Fluctuations in groundwater elevations have a large effect upon the stability of the trench. Therefore, in areas of porous
soil adjacent to bodies of water or other locations where the water table may vary quickly, the water table shall be
monitored.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering 8-25-5

Concrete Structures and Foundations

Filter Cake

Figure 8-25-1. Forces in Non-Cohesive Soils

d. In addition to the force from the fluid pressure of the slurry, the formation of the filter cake that develops at the soil-
slurry interface may contribute to the stability of the trench. Due to this, the minimum allowable factor of safety for
slurry trenches is often lower than that used in the stability analyses of other systems where this interaction between the
soil and the retaining substance does not occur. The appropriate factor of safety for the trench shall be determined by
the Engineer, based upon previous experience with slurry walls, the soil type and an overall project risk assessment,
including the risk involved to the surrounding track or structures.

25.2.5 METHODS OF INCREASING STABILITY (1988) R(2012)

A number of measures may be taken to increase the stability of the trench:

a. Adjusting slurry level and density to increase the hydrostatic pressure within the trench.

b. The water table outside of the trench may be lowered by means of well points to decrease the hydrostatic pressure
outside the trench. Lowering the water table may increase settlement outside of the trench.

c. Grouting to lessen loss of slurry into coarse gravel layers, to lessen sloughing off of wall surfaces into the trench in
loose materials or to increase bearing capacity in areas with surcharge loads.

d. Adjusting the length of cut open at one time in order to increase the arching action in the soil.

25.2.6 FINAL CONDITION (2012)

25.2.6.1 Wall

The design of the wall for the final condition is dependent upon the type and purpose of wall.

25.2.6.2 Cutoff Walls

Slurry cutoff walls may be of either soil-bentonite or cement-bentonite construction. The design of either system shall be
based, in part, on the following factors:

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

8-25-6 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering

 Slurry Wall Construction

a. Permeability. In order to be effective, cutoff walls must be keyed into an underlying aquaclude (impervious layer). The
soil-bentonite or cement-bentonite mixture shall be designed and tested for the desired degree of permeability, as
required to contain the lateral flow of the groundwater. It should be determined that chemical attack on the cutoff wall
from toxic wastes or acids will not reduce the integrity of the walls.

b. Strength. The cutoff wall shall have sufficient strength to withstand the hydraulic gradient across the wall, in addition
to pressures from any embankment or surcharge.

c. Flexibility. The wall should be sufficiently flexible to withstand movements due to deformation of the adjacent soil
under the loads listed in Article 25.2.4.2.

25.2.6.3 Foundation Walls

Foundation walls should be designed (see Part 2, Reinforced Concrete Design) for the following applicable horizontal and
vertical loads:

a. Earth pressure.

b. Hydrostatic pressure from the difference in water table on the opposite sides of the wall.

c. Live load and structure surcharges on the retained fill.

d. Direct live and dead loads on the wall.

SECTION 25.3 MATERIALS

25.3.1 SLURRY (2012)

25.3.1.1 Bentonite-Water Slurry

3

Slurry consists of a stable colloidal suspension of bentonite in water and shall be controlled in accordance with the most
current American Petroleum Institute (API) Standard 13B, “Standard Procedure for Field Testing Drilling Fluids,” and the
following requirements:

a. At the time of introduction of the slurry into the trench the slurry shall be a mixture of not less than 18 pounds (8.16 kg) 4
of bentonite per barrel (42 U.S. gallons) (159 L) of water. Additional bentonite may be required, depending on the
hardness and temperature of the water and the quality of the bentonite. The slurry shall have a minimum apparent
viscosity of 15 centipoise or 40 seconds reading through a Marsh Funnel Viscosimeter at 68 F (20 C), a maximum
filtrate loss of 1.83 in3 (30 cc) in 30 minutes at 100 psi (690 kPa), and a pH of not less than eight.

b. The slurry mixture in the trench shall have unit weight not less than 64 pcf (1.03 g/cc) and not greater than 87 pcf (1.40
g/cm3).

25.3.1.2 Soil-Bentonite Slurry

The slurry to be mixed with the soil should be either slurry taken from the trench or slurry meeting the requirements of slurry
introduced into the trench. If slurry from the trench is used, it shall be cleaned of unsuitable excavated materials (lumps) and
tested prior to reuse.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering 8-25-7

Concrete Structures and Foundations

25.3.1.3 Cement-Bentonite Slurry

The cement-bentonite slurry consists of a stable suspension of cement in a bentonite water slurry and shall be controlled in
accordance with the most current API Standard 10A: “Well Cements” and the following requirements:

a. At the time of introduction of cement in the bentonite-water slurry, the bentonite slurry shall have a minimum 34
seconds reading through a Marsh Funnel, 1.6 U.S. qt (1500 ml) in and 1 U.S. qt (946 ml) out.

b. Cement should be weighed and added to the bentonite slurry to produce a cement-water ratio of 0.20 by weight.

c. At the time of introduction in the trench, the cement-bentonite slurry should be generally proportioned so as to have a
viscosity corresponding to a Marsh Funnel reading not less than 40 seconds or more than 50 seconds, as measured at
the batch plant. If a reading falls outside these limits, the next batch will be corrected to fall within the limits.

25.3.2 BENTONITE (2002) R(2012)

Bentonite used in preparing slurry shall be pulverized (powder or granular) premium grade sodium cation montmorillonite and
shall meet the most current API Standard 13A “Drilling Fluid Materials.”

25.3.3 CEMENT (2002) R(2012)

a. Cement used in cement-bentonite slurry shall conform to ASTM C150, “Requirements for Portland Type 1 Cement.”

b. Cement used in tremie concrete shall conform to the requirements of Part 1, Materials, Tests and Construction
Requirements.

25.3.4 WATER (2012)

Fresh water, free of deleterious substances that adversely affect the properties of the slurry, shall be used to manufacture
bentonite slurry. It is the responsibility of the Contractor that the slurry resulting from the water shall meet the requirements of
this Part.

25.3.5 ADDITIVES (2002) R(2012)

Additives such as softening agents, dispersants, retarders or plugging or bridging agents, may be added to the water or the
slurry to permit efficient use of bentonite and proper workability of the slurry only with the approval of the Engineer.

25.3.6 BACKFILL (2012)

a. When consolidation of the trench backfill is a concern, the material for trench backfilling for a Soil/Bentonite slurry
trench cutoff wall should be composed of slurry and selected granular soils obtained from the excavation and/or
designated borrow areas. The soil shall be friable and free from roots, organic matter, or other deleterious materials.
The backfill shall be thoroughly mixed and reasonably well-graded between the gradation limits found in Table 8-25-
1.

b. When a coefficient of permeability for the backfill must be less than or equal to 1  10-7 cm/sec, the fines in the
backfill mix shall have sufficient plasticity so that the material can be rolled into a 1/8 inch (3 mm) thread without
crumbling. The water content of the backfill material shall not exceed 20% prior to blending with bentonite slurry.
Laboratory permeability tests shall be run to verify the suitability of the mix. Dry bentonite may be added to further
decrease the permeability if needed.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

8-25-8 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering

 Slurry Wall Construction

Table 8-25-1. Backfill Gradation Limits

U.S. Standard Percent Passing by

(metric) Dry Weight
3/8 inches 65 to 100
(9.5 mm)
No. 20 35 to 85
(850 m)
No. 200 15 to 35
(75 m)

c. When consolidation of the backfill is not a concern and a coefficient of permeability in excess of 1  10-6 cm/sec for
the wall is acceptable, the excavated soil, cleaned of deleterious material, should be used for economy.

d. The material used to backfill trenches where precast panels are used shall be composed of any fine grain soil of low
plasticity capable of flowing in place between the precast panel and the walls of the trench excavation. Alternately, the
void between panels can be filled with an approved grout mix such as cement-bentonite.

25.3.7 TREMIE CONCRETE (2012)

Concrete shall be produced and placed in accordance with Part 1, Materials, Tests and Construction Requirements. Approved
additives, such as set retarders, may be used to improve workability. Slump at time of placement should not be less than 8
inches (200 mm).

25.3.8 PRECAST PANELS (2002) R(2012)

Design of precast panels shall meet all requirements of Part 2, Reinforced Concrete Design.

25.3.9 PERMANENT JOINT BEAMS (2012)

If used with cast-in-place concrete walls, permanent joint beams may be precast concrete or steel shapes.

25.3.10 MATERIALS QUALITY CONTROL (2012)

a. Proper quality control should be maintained for the cutoff wall construction, under the direction of a qualified engineer.
Testing requirements are summarized in Table 8-25-2.

b. Results of all tests performed should be recorded.

SECTION 25.4 CONSTRUCTION

25.4.1 GENERAL (2012)

The construction of precast, cast-in-place, and flow-controlling cutoff walls all generally follow the same construction
techniques, i.e., trench excavation under the influence of a restraining bentonite slurry fluid, and fluid replacement by a wall or
barrier material. Construction methods should be such that slurry material is contained and controlled to prevent loss of trench
excavation, leaks, spillage, and then properly disposed.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering 8-25-9

Concrete Structures and Foundations

Table 8-25-2. Materials Quality Control Program

Minimum
Subject Standard Type of Test Specified Values
Frequency
Materials Water – – pH Per Water Source or as As Required to Properly
– Total Hardness Changes Occur Hydrate Bentonite with
Approved Additives
Additives – Manufacturer Certificate of Compliance As Approved by Engineer
with Stated Characteristics
Bentonite API Std. 13A Manufacturer Certificate of Compliance Premium Grade Sodium
Cation Montmorillonite
Backfill Soils – Selected Soils Obtained from a Borrow 65% to 100% Passing 3/8
Area Approved by the Engineer inches Sieve (9.5 mm)
35% to 85% Passing #20 Sieve
(850 m)
15% to 35% Passing
#200 Sieve (75 m)
Roll to 1/8 inch (3 mm) Thread
Cement (for ASTM C150 Manufacturer Certificate of Compliance Portland, Type I
Cement–
Bentonite
Slurry Wall)
Slurry Prepared for API Std. 13B – Unit Weight One Set per Shift or Unit Weight  64 lb/cu. ft.
Placement into – Viscosity Per Batch (Pond) (1.03 g/cm3)
the Trench – Filtrate Loss V  15 Centipoise or 40
– pH Sec-Marsh @ 68 degrees
F (20 degrees C)
Marsh Funnel as Loss  30 cc in 30 min @ 100
per ASTM psi (690 kPa)
D6910 pH  8
In Trench API Std. 13B 1 – Unit Weight One Set per Shift at Unit Weight = 64 - 87 lb/cu. ft.
Point of Trenching and (1.03 – 1.40 g/cm3)
Near the Bottom of
Trench
Backfill At Trench ASTM C143 – Slump One Set per 200 Cubic Slump 2 inches to 6 inches (50
Mix – Gradation Yards (153 m3) mm to 150 mm)
65% to 100% Passing 3/8
inches Sieve (9.5 mm)
35% to 85% Passing #20 Sieve
(850 m)
15% to 35% Passing
#200 Sieve (75 m)
Cement- Upon API Std. 13B – C/W Ratio Each Batch C/W = 0.20
Bentonite Introduction in API Std. 10 – Viscosity Five per Shift V = 40 to 50 Sec-Marsh
Slurry the Trench

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

8-25-10 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering

 Slurry Wall Construction

25.4.2 TRENCH EXCAVATION (2012)

25.4.2.1 General

The trench should be constructed to line and grade and tolerances as shown on the plans. Boring logs indicate the general type
of materials to be excavated.

25.4.2.2 Pretrenching

Pretrenching may be performed to relocate, remove, or preserve utilities. Isolated additional excavations “in the dry” may be
needed to remove obstructions.

25.4.2.3 Trenching Method

a. Trenching should be performed using suitable earth-moving equipment, such as grab or clamshell buckets, backhoe,
chisels, drills, special patented equipment, or other means for the removal of material. Excavation shall be to full-depth
at the point of start, proceed along the trench line full-depth and be performed under bentonite slurry. Methods and
techniques are chosen to minimize over-excavation, loosening and/or caving of material outside the designated wall
width.

b. Guide walls are commonly constructed ahead of the trenching operations to assist in the control of line and grade,
protect the trench sides against sloughing and/or caving of material, support surcharge loads, and act as a reservoir for
the slurry.
1
c. The distance of trench excavation at any one time should not exceed practical limits for placement of permanent wall
material in a given period of time.

d. Additional equipment, such as an air lift, pump, or clamshell buckets, may be needed to clean the trench bottom of
loose material. Means shall be provided to verify the trench depth and condition prior to wall construction.

e. Continuous trenching may be allowed in soil-bentonite wall construction, but individual panels with joints are required 3
for reinforced concrete wall construction.

f. Joints are very important and their design and detail should be carefully considered.

25.4.3 SLURRY MATERIAL (2012)

25.4.3.1 General 4
Sufficient batch plant mixers, pumps, supply lines, ponds and tanks, and reserve material should be provided to assure proper
mixing and placement of the slurry. No slurry shall be prepared in the trench. Mixing of water and bentonite shall continue
until bentonite particles are fully hydrated and the resulting slurry appears homogeneous. The slurry shall be agitated or
recirculated in storage ponds or tanks as required to maintain a homogeneous mix.

25.4.3.2 Slurry Introduction

At the start of trench excavation, the bentonite slurry shall be introduced into the excavation.

25.4.3.3 Slurry Maintenance

The slurry shall be maintained in the excavated trench until the completion of the excavation and displacement of the wall
construction. The slurry level shall meet the design requirements of Section 25.2, Design and be maintained within a
reasonable distance from the top of excavation, generally within 3 feet (1 m), and at least 2 feet (0.7 m) above the groundwater
level. The Contractor should have sufficient personnel, equipment, and material ready to raise the slurry level at any time.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering 8-25-11

Concrete Structures and Foundations

25.4.3.4 Quality Control

Quality control shall be maintained under the direction of a qualified engineer. Testing of the slurry should be performed each
working shift and include testing slurry pH, unit weight, filtration loss, and viscosity.

25.4.3.5 Slurry Disposal

As the slurry is displaced by the construction of the wall, means should be provided for holding the fluid or for its disposal.
Slurry must be disposed of properly.

25.4.4 WALL CONSTRUCTION (2002) R(2012)

25.4.4.1 General

In addition to the above construction requirements and methods, the following should be considered by the Engineer:

25.4.4.2 Cutoff Wall (Soil-Bentonite)

a. Introduce and maintain bentonite-water slurry into the trench. It is essential that the bottom of the slurry trench be
keyed a minimum specified penetration into the underlying aquaclude, as indicated by soil borings.

b. Prepare wall material per project requirements. Soil-bentonite wall material (backfill) shall be composed of slurry and
selected soils obtained from designated borrow areas. The soil shall be free of organic or other deleterious materials.
The backfill shall be thoroughly mixed to a homogeneous paste consistency and reasonably well-graded.

c. Place the wall material continuously, starting at the beginning of the trench in a manner that will produce a
homogeneous wall free of voids or pockets of slurry. Before drying occurs, the top of the wall shall be capped.

25.4.4.3 Cutoff Wall (Cement-Bentonite)

a. Introduce and maintain cement-bentonite slurry into the trench. If, at any time, the slurry in the trench begins to set or
gel before excavation is complete to the full-depth, or otherwise becomes unworkable, additional freshly prepared
cement-bentonite shall be introduced. Addition of water to slurry in the trench shall not be permitted.

b. It is essential that the bottom of the slurry trench be keyed a minimum specified penetration into the underlying
aquaclude, as indicated by soil borings.

c. After initial set, the top of the completed wall shall be checked for decantation. After the wall has been topped off and
set, but before drying occurs, the wall shall be capped.

d. Any time that a wall segment is extended where the slurry in the previously excavated trench has taken a set, a
minimum of 3 feet (1 m) overlap into the previously excavated trench shall be removed.

25.4.4.4 Cast-in-Place Concrete Wall

a. Trench to the line and grade shown on the plans, introducing water-bentonite slurry as trenching progresses. Trench
length open at any one time should not exceed the capacity for placing concrete.

b. Set panel end forms or joint material as required by the plans.

c. Place reinforcement (bars or structural steel) in slurry (for reinforced wall construction).

d. Place wall concrete by tremie (gravity flow or pump) using high slump concrete with 3/4 inches (2 cm) maximum size
aggregate, of the compressive strength designated on the plans. The concrete placement shall be controlled to prevent

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

8-25-12 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering

 Slurry Wall Construction

segregation and not be allowed to fall through the slurry, but rather placed on the trench bottom and allowed to displace
slurry in accordance with Part 1, Materials, Tests and Construction Requirements.

e. The wall top shall be finished to the grade designated on the plans.

f. Additional requirements for cast-in-place concrete wall construction are beyond the scope of this Part.

25.4.4.5 Precast Panel Wall

a. Trench to the line and grade shown on the plans, introducing water-bentonite slurry as trenching progresses. Trench
length should not exceed the capacity for placing precast panels and tremie concrete.

b. Place precast panels in trench (held in position by guide restraints) displacing the slurry fluid.

c. Place tremie concrete at toe of set precast panels as shown on the plans.

d. Backfill with granular material between panel and trench after concrete has set. Remove panel restraints.

25.4.5 INSPECTION (2012)

Only competent and experienced contractors, prequalified by the Engineer, should be engaged for slurry wall construction.
Slurry trench specialists (as approved by the Engineer) should supervise the construction, slurry preparation, and quality
control. Documentation of all materials used shall be furnished to the Engineer, along with certification that the wall
construction conforms to the requirements of the plans and all applicable environmental regulations.
1

C - COMMENTARY (2012)

The purpose of this part is to furnish the technical explanation of various paragraphs in Part 25, Slurry Wall Construction. In 3
the numbering of paragraphs of this section, the numbers after the “C-” correspond to the section/paragraph being explained.

C - SECTION 25.3 MATERIALS

C - 25.3.1 SLURRY (2012)

C - 25.3.1.1 Bentonite-Water Slurry

4

A bentonite-water slurry is generally used during an initial excavation to stabilize the soil on both sides of a trench. The
bentonite usually mixes with the soil on the faces of the excavation creating a “filter cake” that has low permeability.

C - 25.3.1.2 Soil-Bentonite Slurry

Following excavation, bentonite may be mixed with soil and reintroduced into the trench. The soil-bentonite slurry has low
permeability with good chemical resistance and lower cost than pure bentonite and can be used as a long term cutoff wall.

C - 25.3.1.3 Cement-Bentonite Slurry

Cement is mixed with bentonite when a stronger wall is required, either to withstand movement of the adjacent soil due to
loading or to withstand loads applied to the wall itself.

C - 25.3.1.10 Materials Quality Control

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering 8-25-13

Concrete Structures and Foundations

In Table 8-25-2 references to “Marsh” are to the Marsh Funnel (see Figure C-8-25-1) test used as a measure of viscosity. The
Marsh funnel is a cone 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter tapering down over the 12-inch (305 mm) height to a 2-inch (52 mm)
long tube 3/16 inch (4.75 mm) in diameter. The funnel is filled with about 1.6 U.S. quarts (1500 mL) of the slurry and the time
for 1.0 U.S. quart (946 mL) to pass through the funnel is recorded as a measure of viscosity. If water is used, the time is 26 +/-
0.5 seconds. The time for slurry should be about 40 seconds and for soil-bentonite slurry between 40 and 50 seconds as per
Table 8-25-2.

C - SECTION 25.4 CONSTRUCTION

C - 25.4.3 SLURRY MATERIAL (2012)

C - 25.4.3.5 Disposal

Slurry must be disposed of at a permitted disposal facility or on site if approved by the Owner/Engineer in compliance with
federal, state and local laws and regulations. Care must be taken to ensure that slurry does not escape to nearby drainage
courses, sewers, wetlands or detention basins.

Figure C-8-25-1. Marsh Funnel

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

8-25-14 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering