Numerical Evaluation of Geogrid-Encased Stone Columns in Soft Soil under Embankment Loading

摘要

This paper presents a systematic investigation to study the behavior of geogrid-encased stone columns in soft soil under embankment loading. A 3-D finite element model of the embankment was employed to carry out a parametric study on factors like encasement stiffness and encasement length. The result shows significant improvement in terms of settlement reduction, excess pore water pressure generation, and lateral deformation of the column along its length. This study reveals that for the chosen configuration, column encased with geogrid encasement having stiffness beyond 5000 kN/m has an insignificant effect on the performance. Moreover, there is no any substantial improvement beyond encasement length (ζ = L_(GESC) / L_(OSC)) of 0.80. It is interesting to note that the failure profile of the column is different at different locations. Encasing the column is beneficial both in reducing the bulging and bending of the column.