Consolidation equation valid for both Darcian and non-Darcian flow

Abstract

In an earlier paper, a comparison was made between the consolidation process experienced in practice and the theoretical consolidation process both determined according to the classical consolidation theory based upon the validity of Darcy's law and obtained on the assumption of an exponential correlation between hydraulic gradient and flow velocity (non-Darcian flow). The results obtained, based on back-analysis of field data, showed a better agreement between theory and practice if non-Darcian rather than Darcian flow was assumed. In this paper new equations are demonstrated covering the exponential as well as the linear correlation between hydraulic gradient and flow velocity, including the effect of smear and well resistance. A comparison is made between the results obtained by the solution based merely on Darcian flow and the new solution based on exponential flow. It is shown that the new, more general solution can replace the solution based on Darcian flow.