Journal Published Online: 10 December 2012
Volume 36, Issue 1

Laboratory Evaluation of Coefficient of Radial Consolidation Based on Pore-Water-Pressure Dissipation and Settlement

CODEN: GTJODJ

Abstract

Modified and standard Rowe consolidation cells were employed to investigate the behaviour of soft clays during vacuum assisted radial consolidation. Degree of consolidation (DOC) and the back calculated value of coefficient of radial consolidation (ch) based on measured settlement and excess pore-water-pressure (uw) dissipation curves were compared. The DOC and (ch) based on pore water pressures are shown to be less than those based on settlements. The vacuum pressure-total surcharge ratio (VSR) is found to be an important parameter controlling the rate of the consolidation. Moreover, the coefficient of radial consolidation (ch) based on conventional oedometer testing could not accurately predict the consolidation behaviour of soft soils under varying VSR. Finally, a semi-empirical model incorporating the relationship between VSR and a modified coefficient of radial consolidation is introduced.

Author Information

Indraratna, Buddhima
Centre for Geomechanics and Railway Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Univ. of Wollongong, Wollongong City, NSW, AU ARC Centre of Excellence for Geotechnical Science and Engineering, AU
Kianfar, Kourosh
Centre for Geomechanics and Railway Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Univ. of Wollongong, Wollongong City, NSW, AU ARC Centre of Excellence for Geotechnical Science and Engineering, AU
Rujikiatkamjorn, Cholachat
Centre for Geomechanics and Railway Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Univ. of Wollongong, Wollongong City, NSW, AU Centre of Excellence for Geotechnical Science and Engineering, AU
Pages: 12
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: GTJ20120032
ISSN: 0149-6115
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ20120032