Solvay Waste Compression Evaluation Using Field Instrumentation

This paper provides a case study where field instrumentation was used to assess the compressibility of Solvay waste (waste) and to independently confirm results from a laboratory testing program. A pilot study was performed that included laboratory testing, placement of 3 meters (m) of soil fill over a 4,100-square meter (m²) area of the waste, and installation and monitoring of field instrumentation to measure settlement and pore water pressure changes before, during, and following fill placement. The pilot study focused on evaluating the compression and time rate of compression behavior of the waste when subjected to vertical loading. The piezometer and settlement plate results were consistent and comparable with the laboratory data in terms of both the magnitude and time rate of settlement. Using field instrumentation data collected during the pilot study, a site-specific geotechnical model was developed to estimate the total and differential waste settlement under a vertical loading associated with a potential site reuse option.