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FAQ – Technical

Frequently asked questions about Geobear technology, our solutions for subsidence and settlement problems and about the geopolymer we use.

If you have a question that is not answered here or want more information, please contact us

What Are The Mechanical Properties Of our Materials?

Mechanical Properties

Typical Value

Applied density – 50kg/m3 – 500kg/m3

Compressive strength – 0.5 MPa – 15 MPa

Shear strength – 0.5 MPa – 15 MPa

Tensile strength – 0.5 MPa – 3 MPa

Flexural strength – 0.5 MPa – 15 MPa

Expansion force – 10 000 kPa

E-modulus – 10 MPa – 80 MPa

Permeability coefficient – 10 – 8 m/s

Geobear materials are specified based on the mechanical property requirements of each individual project.

Which Soil Types Can We Work With?

Most soil types are suitable including:

  • Granular soils
  • Cohesive soils
  • Organic soils
  • Made Ground

What Is The Longgevity And Stability Of Geopolymer?

  • Design life in excess of 100 years.
  • Material has been tested and is evaluated to be stable for a minimum of 60 years.
  • Proven practical results with over 30 years of project applications.
  • Material stable between -20 to +100 °C.

Is There Any Impact On The Environment?

With regard to geopolymer-based processes, it is understandable to query their possible effects on the environment, and on health and safety. Since beginning, Geobear has adopted a strict policy on these subjects – both to safeguard the health of its employees and clients, and to preserve ecosystems.

Geobear geopolymer has no negative impact on the environment. Environmental impact assessment carried out by Stantec Ltd, a global company for soil and groundwater consultation, on the potential environmental risks of geopolymers to controlled waters, has shown that geopolymer does not contaminate the groundwater.

According to the test run, there is no discernible presence of hazardous substances or non-hazardous pollutants in geopolymer as the multiple components of geopolymer, once mixed, form closed and very tightly bonded chains of molecules. The leachability test results demonstrated that the discharge would be of a quantity and concentration so small as to obviate any present or future danger of deterioration in the quality of the receiving groundwater.

Ref. Stantec/ Esi consulting  66682TN1

How Does The Material Waste Need To Be Handled If It Is Excavated In The Future?

As normal disposal, classified as normal building material waste.

Can It Be Applied In Situations Where There Is Groundwater?

Yes – Geobearmaterials are hydrophobic.

There is no difference between exposing the material to salt water vs. fresh water

How Does The Groundwater Impact Our Material?

Groundwater has no impact on the mechanical properties of the Geobear material.

Does Water Permeate The Material?

The material is a closed cell structure and posses a very low permeability coefficient.

How Quickly Does The Material Cure And How Soon Can Loads Be Applied?

The material cures within seconds.

90% of the materials’ mechanical properties are reached within the first 15 minutes.

The material typically reaches its final properties within 24 hours.

Can The Material Be Used To Assist Vibration Reduction?

This will depend on the material, the circumstances and the density.

The material has some elasticity, which is typically positive – for example when comparing to concrete which may break down under shock loadings.

Can The Solution Be Applied In Extreme Cold?

The materials and process can be undertaken in any conditions.

Is It Possible To Excavate The Ground That Has Been Injected And What Machiney May It Require?

Yes it is possible and can be done with normal excavators and hand tools.

Can You Treat Structures That Have Been Piled?

Yes, these projects are assessed on a case by case basis by our Engineering department.

How Does The Weight Of Geopolymer Compare To The Weight Of Soil?

Typically < 15% of the soil, depending on the geopolymer utilised and the existing soil


Technical Papers

Thermal resistance of geopolymer

The Thermal resistance is measure with a dimensional stability test and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMTA) analysis. The (Geobear) geopolymer is dimensional stable between -20c and 13c. At a certain temperature, the material will lose mechanical properties and will start to degrade. This reduction in stiffness is depending on the system and applied density. Based on averaged soil temperature of 10c at a depth of 1 metre (3), the Geobear geopolymer fits the safe temperature range

Thermal-resistance

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