One-dimensional piecewise-linear large-strain consolidation model for soft clay with anisotropic creep behaviour

Abstract

Viscous behaviour is a significant characteristic of soil, and to accurately capture this behaviour, a piecewise-linear model called ACLC has been developed specifically for modelling one-dimensional large-strain consolidation of soft clay. ACLC takes into account both the long-term deformation and anisotropy of the soil. Furthermore, it incorporates various factors such as soil heterogeneity, self-weight, time-dependent loading, vertical flows, and seepage force. In ACLC, the settlement of the soil layer is a result of both the net outflow of fluid from the soil element and the development of soil creep. To describe the creep behaviour of the soil, ACLC employs two yield surfaces: the Current State Surface (CSS) and the Normal Consolidation Surface (NCS). The creep rates are calculated based on the associated flow rule. To ensure the accuracy of ACLC, it is validated using the enhanced CS2 model, oedometer tests conducted on Xiaoshan soft clay, and observed data from the Murro test embankment. Finally, the influence of ACLC parameters on the consolidation behaviour of clay is thoroughly investigated. This analysis helps to understand the role of these parameters and their impact on the overall consolidation process.