Analytical solution for the consolidation of a composite ground reinforced by partially penetrated impervious columns

Composite ground improved by partially penetrated impervious columns consists of a reinforced zone and an underlying stratum. Based on the axisymmetric consolidation model, the governing equations for the average excess pore water pressure were developed within the surrounding soil and the underlying untreated soil. The corresponding solutions were given on the basis of the consolidation theory of a double-layer subsoil ground, and the overall average degree of consolidation of the composite ground was obtained. The accuracy of the proposed solution was examined by FEM. The proposed solution and FEM results show a good match. A parametric analysis of consolidation behavior of the composite ground was then investigated. The results indicate that the consolidation rate of the composite ground strongly depends on the penetration ratio of the impervious columns (ratio of column length to soil thickness) in the way that the higher the ratio, the faster the consolidation rate. In addition, an increasing area replacement ratio of an impervious column decreases the consolidation rate. The consolidation rate of the composite ground decreases with the increasing of the constrained modulus ratio of an impervious column to its surrounding soil for a lower penetration ratio, while it increases with the increasing of the constrained modulus ratio for a higher penetration ratio.