When building on soft, waterlogged ground—like near tailings dams or unstable soils—construction can be dangerous. Heavy structures or events like earthquakes make the water in the soil increase in pressure, weakening the ground and risking collapse. Traditional fixes, like laying heavy material to squeeze water out, are expensive, slow, and must often be undone later.
The Innovation
This invention improves the “wick drain,” a common tool used to help wet soil dry out and become more stable. Normally, wick drains just sit in the ground and let water slowly escape upward. This new design actively pulls water out using a simple method called air lifting.
How It Works
Two small tubes are built into the wick drain. One sends air down, and the other uses rising air bubbles to pull water up from deep underground. It’s like using bubbles to push water up a straw—no moving parts, no maintenance.
What’s New
Unlike older methods, this invention doesn’t just rely on passive drainage or pressurized systems that block water. It uniquely combines the wick drain and air lift pump into one sealed, maintenance-free system that keeps working even deep underground.
Tangible Benefits
- Dries and strengthens the ground faster.
- Avoids hauling heavy materials for loading and removing them later.
- Works over large areas and can run on solar or wind power.
- Reduces construction delays and costs.
Broader Impact
This innovation supports safer roads, runways, and infrastructure, especially in areas prone to earthquakes or unstable ground. It also promotes sustainable building by reducing energy use and environmental disruption.