The report provides guidance on the of embedded retaining walls (e.g., sheet piles, diaphragm walls, secant piles) in overconsolidated stiff clays , particularly the London Clay and similar geological formations. It addresses:
Design of Retaining Walls Embedded in Stiff Clays Published: 1984 (with later revisions/updates in related CIRIA publications such as CIRIA C580) Authors: Padfield, C.J. & Mair, R.J. (for the original) ciria report 108
Its legacy lies in its accessibility; it took complex hydrogeological theory and translated it into actionable engineering practice. It standardized the approach to temporary works dewatering, ensuring that a consistent methodology could be applied across the industry, reducing the variability in safety and quality. The report provides guidance on the of embedded
Beyond the mechanics of pumping, CIRIA Report 108 emphasizes the crucial relationship between groundwater control and stability. One of the most significant contributions of the document is its focus on the consequences of failing to adequately control water pressure. It details the mechanisms of "boiling" or "piping" in excavations—a phenomenon where upward seepage forces reduce the effective stress of the soil, leading to catastrophic collapse. (for the original) Its legacy lies in its
In the complex and risk-laden field of construction and civil engineering, the management of groundwater is a critical determinant of project success. Among the myriad of technical guides available to engineers, holds a distinguished position. Published by the Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA), this report has served as a definitive reference for decades, bridging the gap between theoretical hydrogeology and the practical realities of construction sites. This essay examines the significance of CIRIA Report 108, analyzing its technical scope, its role in mitigating geotechnical risk, and its enduring legacy in the industry.
CIRIA Report 108, "Concrete Pressure on Formwork," provides a widely utilized, rationalized design method for calculating lateral pressure exerted by fresh concrete on vertical formwork. The guidance factors in variables such as concrete mixture components, rate of placement, and temperature, defining a pressure envelope that accounts for the transition from fluid state to a stable structure. For further technical details and to acquire the report, visit CIRIA. Concrete pressure on formwork (R108) - CIRIA