Consolidation of Clay and Peat with Variable Properties

A nonlinear theory is given which enables the effects of large strain, variable permeability and compressibility, and nonlinear viscous resistance to be considered in the analysis of one-dimensional consolidation. The macromechanics of the process is conveniently described by means of a simple rheological model. All theoretical results which are required for practical purposes are presented in a convenient graphical form. A comparison is made between the theory presented herein and existing theories from which it will be seen that the special features which have been introduced allow a better description of soil behavior to be made. The application of the theory to the determination of basic soil parameters from settlement curves is given. Finally an assessment of the theory is made in relation to experimental test data on undisturbed and remolded samples of clay and peat. The agreement is encouraging.