Development of Reinforced Concrete Piles in the Lower Yellow River, China

Controlling the river regime in the lower wandering reaches of the Yellow River Basin is important for ecological protection and high-quality development. This study reviews the development of pile groynes suitable for wandering rivers. As a widely used form of reinforced concrete pile, pile groynes, including round and sheet piles, have been built in alluvial rivers in large numbers for many years. Currently, research focuses on improving the stability and erosion resistance of these piles. Here, three types of groynes are discussed according to the construction technology: cast-in situ bored pile, vibratory-driven pile, and jetted precast concrete pile. Detailed discussions are provided regarding their respective applicability, improvement processes and characteristics. In contrast to the other two methods, jetting minimizes the damage to the structure and strength of the concrete pile and is characterized as fast-tracking, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Enhancing the safety and practicality of concrete piles can be effectively achieved through improvements in construction techniques, modified construction materials, and multi-structure combination pile designs. Furthermore, in the current context of pursuing a resource-saving and environmentally friendly society, energy conservation and emissions reduction have become focal points in engineering technology development, while still maintaining a strong emphasis on construction quality.