The result is a stable, shored excavation with few dewatering problems. The frozen soil wall created a tight seal around the boring machine casing so that very little water or soil came into the excavation as the boring machine entered. Freezing applications Ground freezing has many applications in civil engineering. It eliminates the need for structural shoring systems and dewatering. It also creates a very hard, durable surface for construction equipment, even in soft soils.
Ground freezing provides a strong, stable support for existing or new foundations near excavations.
It freezes loose, wet sand to prevent liquefaction during an earthquake. In landslide mitigation, it creates strong points in the slope for stabilization but allows ground water to flow. There are many environmental applications for soil freezing as well. It can provide an in-situ barrier for containment of contaminated groundwater and a bottom barrier at landfills or other contaminated sites, and provides temporary shoring for construction of permeable barriers or excavation of contamination. It creates a dry, safe environment for construction and excavation.