Densification of Gravelly Sand Fill Using Intensive Surface Compaction

Abstract

A case study is presented herein whereby a heavy vibratory roller was used to densify a 6-ft-(1.8-m) thick layer of gravelly sand fill located below ground-water level. Geotechnical engineering evaluations had concluded that the fill was susceptible to liquefaction during the design seismic event. Excavation and subsequent placement of the same fill in thin compacted lifts would have required a difficult and expensive dewatering effort. The layer was densified by repeated coverages of a heavy vibratory roller. Test borings with continuous standard penetration tests were performed to verify that the intended densification had been achieved.