Sheet piles have been used for many years to construct water retaining cofferdams. In recent years the same flow-restricting properties have been used in the environmental sector. Sheet piles can be driven deep to cut off groundwater far below the surface. Sheet pile barrier walls are far less disruptive than slurry walls, drilling, or other methods. A variety of sealant systems are available.

Remediation

One of the most important reasons for ever-increasing environmental protection standards is to ensure clean, fresh water. Although it has been illegal for several years to knowingly contaminate the ground and groundwater, there are still many sites in need of containment and remediation. New pollution from accidental leaks and spills needs to be prevented, and old pollution from pre-EPA industrial sites needs to be addressed so the health and well-being of our society is not put at risk.

Steel sheet piles are almost completely impermeable. The only joint is the interlock between the sheet piles. The inherent tightness of the Larssen interlock, the width of the piles, and the pre-delivered sealing and welding measures all contribute to decreased flow. Environmental engineers recognize Z-shaped sheet piles with the Larssen-interlock as an excellent method for containing polluted groundwater and have enjoyed success in many environmental projects.