Numerical investigation of granular column-improved soils using the direct shear test

Abstract

The granular columns treatment is widely used in the weak soils. The present paper focuses on the numerical modeling of a direct shear test on granular columns in soils. The finite difference code Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua in 3 Dimensions (FLAC3D) was used in this research work, to evaluate the equivalent properties of granular column-improved soils with different diameters of the columns, and different plan configurations. The results of these numerical tests are discussed in terms of increases the shear load-strength and decreases the horizontal displacement due to the variation of arrangements, Young's modulus and the friction angle of the granular columns. Different types of failures observed in the granular columns. Bending failure mode is the main in the granular column with large values of Young's modulus and the friction angle when subjected a lateral load.