Pile driving and barotrauma effects

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2005

Abstract

High-capacity driven pipe piles have recently been shown to be a viable alternative to pile groups in terms of economy and strength. A complication has emerged for the construction of bridge foundations with large-diameter pipe piles, however - the injury and mortality of fish from sound pressure waves produced from pile driving, otherwise known as barotrauma. Even though this issue has been prevalent in California, regulators have started to restrict other states. This has caused confusion as to how to avoid unexpected increases in construction costs while following environmental laws. After several trials, California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) engineers have implemented solutions to this problem, including driving windows, cofferdams, and a few different versions of air bubble curtains. This paper presents an accumulation of knowledge from engineers, biologists, and sound experts. It is to serve as an avenue for informing those who may soon be affected with pile-driving and fish barotrauma issues to minimize harmful effects and costs in the future.

Publication Title

Transportation Research Record

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