Construction vibration attenuation with distance and its effect on the quality of early-age concrete

Abstract

Pile-driving, blasting, and other WisDOT construction activities create air- and ground-transmitted vibration forces that can damage existing and in-construction facilities. Wisconsin limits construction-based vibration levels and the timing of pile-driving near fresh pours based on standards drawn from federal mine-blasting evaluations. This study focuses on pile-driving vibrational effects - both on attenuation of vibrations over distance from source, and on distance and age effects of such vibrations on recently placed concrete - that will be triggered by driving piles during the Marquette Interchange reconstruction. Data emerging from this study will help WisDOT estimate and regulate the impact of pile-driving on adjacent structures and nearby fresh concrete.