Geosynthetic-reinforced and jet grout column-supported embankments on soft soils: Numerical analysis and parametric study

Using a computer code based on the finite element method, a study is conducted to analyse the time-dependent behaviour of a geosynthetic-reinforced and jet grout column-supported embankment on soft soils, as well as the influence of three factors: the embankment height, the elastic modulus of column and the column spacing. The cylindrical unit cell formulation is used. The numerical model incorporates the Biot consolidation theory with soil constitutive relations simulated by the p–q–θ critical state model. Special emphasis is given to the analysis of several parameters: settlement, excess pore pressure, effective stress, stress level, tension in the geosynthetic, soil arching effect and overall efficiency coefficient.

► Geosynthetic-reinforced and column-supported embankments on soft soils are analysed.
► Fully coupled analysis and the cylindrical unit cell formulation are used.
► Effect of consolidation is analysed.
► Soil constitutive relations are simulated with a critical state model.
► Influence of embankment height, column elastic modulus and column spacing is studied.