Vacuum consolidation

Vacuum consolidation (or vacuum preloading) is a soft

or greater can, typically, be maintained for as long as required.

However, if loads of 80kPa or greater are needed in order to achieve the target soil improvement, additional surcharge may be placed on top of the vacuum system. The vacuum preloading method is cheaper and faster than the fill surcharge method for an equivalent load in suitable areas. Where the underlying ground consists of permeable materials, such as sand or

is influenced by drainage boundary conditions.

References