bodembouw

Bodembouw is a sector of civil engineering that focuses on designing and executing construction on and with soil to provide stable, durable foundations and ground conditions. It covers the assessment, preparation, and improvement of ground as well as the placement of structures.

Core activities include site investigation, soil classification, foundation design (shallow and deep), earthworks (excavation, backfill, compaction), and drainage management. The aim is to ensure adequate bearing capacity, controlled settlements, and suitable moisture conditions.

Ground improvement techniques used in bodembouw include compaction, vibro-compaction, dynamic compaction, jet grouting, chemical stabilization (lime, cement), mechanical stabilization, geosynthetic reinforcement, and controlled drainage. These methods modify soil properties to meet structural requirements.

Applications include buildings, roads, railways, flood defenses, ports, embankments, and tunnels. It also covers slope stabilization and land reclamation. It requires integration with other disciplines and careful management of groundwater and environmental concerns.

The field relies on geotechnical engineering principles and is governed by standards and guidelines for soil testing, foundation design, and construction methods. Professionals involved include geotechnical engineers, soil technicians, and construction managers.