Ground-Borne Vibration and Noise from Impact Pile Driving: Case Studies of Two Regions in Thailand

The article explores the significant environmental consequences of impact pile driving, particularly the generation of ground-borne vibration and noise. It highlights the complexity of predicting these phenomena due to the interplay of various factors, including ground conditions, distance from the source, and hammer energy. The study presents detailed case studies from Bangkok and the Eastern region of Thailand, where precast concrete piles were driven using hydraulic and drop hammers. The research measures vibrations on the ground surface, ground floors, foundations, and concrete roads, providing a comprehensive dataset. The article proposes site-specific empirical equations to predict ground vibration, considering the unique soil profiles and construction practices of each region. It also investigates the sound levels produced by pile driving, offering empirical relationships to estimate noise propagation. The findings are compared with existing empirical methods, revealing the limitations of generalized equations and the need for region-specific predictions. The article concludes with design proposals for evaluating ground-borne vibration and noise, emphasizing the importance of site-dependent factors in construction-induced environmental impacts.