Deep cylindrical excavations in soft soils retained by reinforced concrete diaphragm walls: Analysis considering the consolidation effect

摘要

Using a computer code based on the finite element method, a deep cylindrical excavation in soft clay retained by a reinforced concrete diaphragm wall is analyzed, the consolidation effect being considered. The computer code incorporates the Biot's consolidation theory (coupled formulation of the equilibrium and flow equations) with soil constitutive relations simulated by the p-q-θ critical state model. The p-q-θ model is an extension of the Modified Cam-Clay model into the three-dimensional stress space using the Mohr-Coulomb failure criteria. Particular attention is given, during and after the construction period, to the analysis of the excess pore pressure, stress levels and displacements in the soil, as well as stresses and displacements on the wall.