Solutions for One-Dimensional Rheological Consolidation of a Clay Layer with Threshold Hydraulic Gradient under Multistage Loading

Abstract

For clays with low permeability, some experimental results show that there may exist a threshold hydraulic gradient, below which the water in clays cannot flow. This threshold hydraulic gradient induces a moving boundary problem in the model of consolidation that is difficult to solve analytically. To date, only analytical linear elastic consolidation solutions have been developed when the threshold hydraulic gradient is considered. The linear elastic models are, however, unable to capture the rheological behaviors of clays. In this paper, analytical and numerical solutions are derived for rheological consolidation under a multistage loading when the threshold hydraulic gradient is considered. Finally, the influences of the threshold hydraulic gradient and rheological model on consolidation behavior are investigated.