Semi-analytical solution of consolidation for composite ground

A number of consolidation solutions of composite ground which ignores the nonlinear character of soft soil and columns have been derived. In this paper, the e−log σ′ and e−log k relationship is used to describe the stress–strain and strain–permeability coefficient relationship of soft soil. The nonlinear compressive character of stone columns is considered. With the assumption that the initial stresses of soil and columns increase linearly along the depth, a semi-analytical method by dividing the computing unit and segmenting the consolidation time is introduced, and some nonlinear consolidation properties of composite ground are analyzed.

► A nonlinear consolidation model of composite ground is proposed.
► The consolidation equation is solved using a semi-analytical method.
► Variation of consolidation coefficient and modulus ratio is analysed.
► The influence of nonlinear parameters on consolidation rate is discussed.