Micropiles: Small-Diameter Elements for HighStrength Solutions

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Micropiles, with their slender diameters ranging from 10 to 30 cm, have become a cornerstone of geotechnical engineering, providing high-strength solutions for challenging structural support problems. Initially developed more than 50 years ago for postwar reconstruction complexities, the last two decades have seen a significant evolution in micropile technology, from low-capacity pile networks to the utilization of single, high-capacity elements for substantial structural support. Their effectiveness in enhancing bearing capacity and reducing settlement has been particularly noted in strengthening existing foundations. Whether vertically or in reticulated patterns, micropiles support excavations, slopes, and foundations and are indispensable in the underpinning or retrofitting of structures within confined spaces where traditional methods falter. The recent resurgence of interest in micropile networks, recognized for their technical and economic viability, extends their application to slope stabilization, lateral load accommodation, and seismic retrofitting. This chapter explores the advancements and broadening applications of micropiles technology, underscoring the innovative research and development that continue to expand their potential. It presented a comprehensive view of future advances and envisioned applications, illustrating the pivotal role of micropiles in addressing the intricate challenges of modern geotechnical engineering within a single cohesive narrative.