Consolidation of a Double-Layered Compressible Foundation Partially Penetrated by Deep Mixed Columns

Abstract

Deep mixed columns often penetrate partially into the soft soil as floating columns due to the depth of the end-bearing layer. Partially penetrated soft soil by columns and the underlying compressible soft soil create a double-layered compressible foundation. So far, no reasonable solution is available to estimate the consolidation of such a double-layered foundation. This paper proposes an analytical solution for consolidation of a double-layered compressible foundation partially penetrated by deep mixed columns considering one-side or two-side vertical drainage The Laplace transform method was used to solve the consolidation equation for the double-layered system while Stehfest’s algorithm was used to solve the inverse Laplace transform for time-dependent loading. A consolidation algorithm was used to calculate the time-settlement relationship of an embankment constructed upon the double-layered foundation partially penetrated by deep mixed columns. The calculated settlements were compared well with field measurements.