Vertical cyclic loading response of geosynthetic-encased stone column in soft clay. Issue 6 (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Ling; Xu, Zeyu; Zhou, Shuai
• Is Part Of: Geotextiles and geomembranes. Volume 48:Issue 6(2020:Dec.)
• Page Start: 897
• Page End: 911
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Geosynthetic-encased stone columns -- Cyclic loading -- Model tests -- Excess pore water pressure; Membranes (Technology) -- Periodicals; Membranes (Technology); Periodicals; Electronic journals; 624.189
• DOI: 10.1016/j.geotexmem.2020.07.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0266-1144

Abstract

Abstract: Dynamic responses of the geosynthetic-encased stone column (GESC) supported embankment under traffic loads have become a hot topic. This study investigates the responses of GESC improved ground under vertical cyclic loading. A series of laboratory tests in a designed model test tank have been carried out with different loading parameters (varied loading amplitudes and frequencies), different column dimensions (varied encasement lengths and column diameters). In the tests, the soil-column stress distribution, accumulated settlement of loading plate, excess pore water pressure in the surrounding soil and lateral bulging of the stone column are monitored. Experimental results indicate that the vertical stress on the stone column increases with the increment of encasement length, and decreases with the increment of column diameter, loading amplitude and loading frequency. The increasing stress on the surrounding soil leads to a greater accumulated settlement of the loading plate and excess pore water pressure, while the increasing stress on the column leads to larger lateral bulging of the column. Excess pore water pressure dissipates effectively through vertical and horizontal drainage channels provided by the stone column and the sand bed. The geosynthetic encasement prevents the clay from obstructing the drainage channel by filtration and guarantees the drainage effect. Highlights: Laboratory tests have been conducted to study the dynamic responses of GESCs in soft soil under cyclic loads. Soil-column stress distribution, accumulated settlement and column bulging are obtained. Variation of the excess pore water pressure in GESCs improved ground subjected to cyclic loads is obtained.