Settlement analysis of embankments on soft clays

Highly realistic analysis of the consolidation of soft clays is possible within the framework of the traditional concepts of soil mechanics. A practical method is described for predicting the magnitude and rate of settlement and pore water pressure dissipation. Detailed interpretation and evaluation of the consolidation properties of soft clays, including the compressibility parameters, preconsolidation pressure and coefficient of permeability are presented. These properties can be determined from the standard oedometer test with direct permeability measurements. Computer procedure ILLICON, using multi-layer analysis, includes any variation of consolidation parameters with depth. The proposed method for evaluating the consolidation parameters, and settlement and pore water pressure analyses is illustrated using case histories of two test fills on soft clays. Excellent agreement is obtained between the computed behavior and field observations.