A diaphragm wall is a reinforced, cast-in-place concrete curtain, extensively used in deep excavations, especially in scenarios involving water and/or loose granular soils. These soils are particularly challenging due to their tendency to flow or collapse.
The construction of a diaphragm wall involves excavating a narrow trench in the ground, which is initially supported by an engineered fluid, typically bentonite mud, to maintain stability. This fluid is eventually replaced by the permanent concrete material.
Diaphragm walls generally range in thickness from 500mm to 1500mm and can be excavated to depths of exceeding 50 meters. Diaphragm walls can be effectively combined with anchoring and bracing systems for enhanced stability.
