Abstract
A new approach is proposed for evaluating the fieid performance of vertical drains. This method involves comparing the minimum discharge capacity qw(min) of a vertical drain installation required for negligible well resistance with the discharge capacity mobilized in the field, qw(mob). A procedure has been developed for the estimation of qw(min), which has a typical value in the range Of 2 to 100 m3/yr, depending on the horizontal permeability of the soil and the maximum drainage length Of the vertical drain. A computer program, ILLICON, was developed for settlement analysis of embankments on soft ground and was used to back-calculate qw(min) from field observations of settlement and pore water pressure. The drain performance at four vertical drain installation schemes was evaluated using the proposed method. It was found that the magnitude of the compressive strain undergone by soil during preloading is a critical factor to the proper functioning of vertical drains.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
