A numerical investigation into the equivalent parameters of a compressible soil treated by stone columns

Abstract

A series of triaxial test simulations are adopted to estimate the equivalent strength parameters for compressible soil samples reinforced with stone columns. The simulations utilize the finite difference code, Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua in three dimensions FLAC3D. An elasto-plastic model is applied to utilize a Mohr-Coulomb yield criterion. The equivalent strength parameters are estimated using newly proposed formulas for geo-composite materials. The researchers compare the obtained results to the analytical formulas proposed in the literature. Additionally, the equivalent parameters are used in equivalent area models. This study investigates the effect of the replacement area ratio. This study offers two applications. Firstly, it evaluates the safety factor of embankments constructed on compressible soil improved with stone columns. Secondly, it estimates the bearing capacity of strip footings on compressible soil treated with stone columns. In all applications, both individual column and equivalent area models are considered. The proposed equations for the equivalent elastic parameters (E, ν) and the mechanical properties, equivalent cohesion, and internal frictional angle (c and φ) give results that agree with the solutions reported in the existing literature.