Application of the dynamic replacement method in geotechnical soil improvement

Abstract

Soils with low bearing capacity and/or high compressibility are widely encountered in both onshore environments — such as urban, industrial, and transportation infrastructure areas — and offshore settings in Brazil and worldwide. This widespread occurrence requires geotechnical interventions aimed at stabilizing and improving soil parameters and properties. Various ground improvement techniques are available, ranging from reinforcement and consolidation methods to compaction and stabilization approaches. Among them, the Dynamic Replacement (DR) method stands out as an effective solution for soft soils, organic clays, and similar deposits, through the partial replacement of the soil to be improved, using principles derived from dynamic compaction but applied to soil reinforcement. Currently, in Brazil, there is a relative scarcity of information available in the literature, as well as limited practical application in geotechnical works. Therefore, the present paper aims to provide a literature review addressing the fundamental concepts of Dynamic Replacement, as well as the equipment involved, monitoring and efficiency assessment procedures, existing numerical models, and representative case studies of the technique’s applications in Brazil and internationally.