Embankments on soft soils incorporating vertical drains. Three dimensional analysis by finite element method.

Abstract

Three-dimensional behaviour of an embankment on soft soils incorporating vertical drains is analysed by a numerical model based on the finite element method. The model, which incorporates the Biot's consolidation theory (coupled formulation of the flow and equilibrium equations) and constitutive relations simulated by the p-q-0 critical state model, is applied on both the embankment with the vertical drains (three-dimensional analysis) and the same problem but without vertical drains (two-dimensional analysis). Special emphasis is given to the analysis in time, during and after the construction period, of the excess pore pressures, settlements, horizontal displacements and stress levels.