Numerical Modeling of an Embankment over Soft Ground Improved with Deep Cement Mixed Columns: Case History
Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 140, Issue 11
Abstract
This paper describes a case history of a deep cement mixed (DCM) column–supported embankment that is part of the Ballina Bypass section of the Pacific Highway Upgrade project in Australia. Measured settlements during and after construction of the embankment were significantly greater than the predicted settlements and suggested that the DCM columns were yielded. The case history was analyzed using a finite-element model based on the coupled theory of nonlinear porous media. Two cases were analyzed: with and without the strain-softening behavior of DCM columns caused by breakage of the soil-cement structure. The computed settlements, excess pore-water pressures, and lateral deformations were compared with field measurements. Results show that there was good agreement between the measured and the computed parameters when the strain-softening behavior of the columns was included. These results clearly show that consideration of the strain softening of DCM columns in the analysis is important if yielding occurs during or after embankment construction.
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Acknowledgments
The authors acknowledge the financial support for this research provided by the Australian Research Council and Coffey Geotechnics Pty Ltd. under the Linkage project LP0990581. In addition, the Roads and Traffic Authority of New South Wales, Australia, is greatly acknowledged for permission to publish data from the Ballina Bypass.
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Published In
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 140 • Issue 11 • November 2014
Copyright
© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jul 1, 2013
Accepted: Jul 1, 2014
Published online: Jul 29, 2014
Published in print: Nov 1, 2014
Discussion open until: Dec 29, 2014
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