Radial consolidation of prefabricated vertical drain-reinforced soft clays under cyclic loading

Previous studies have revealed that prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs) are effective in stabilizing the soft subgrade soils under traffic-induced cyclic loads. A consolidation model of clays loading incorporating both radial and drainages, nonlinear variation compressibility permeability is presented this paper. The prediction matches well with result from a large-scale triaxial test conducted on soil sample installed single PVD. Parametric analysis has also been carried out to explore impacts degradation parameter, stress ratio, permeability, frequency, drainage condition, number cycles behaviors PVD-reinforced soil. Results indicate helps decelerate accumulation excess pore pressures due two factors: increased rate pressure dissipation decreased internal generation. In addition, facilitates rapid during rest period, leading denser which stronger for resisting subsequent set findings study demonstrate usefulness PVDs reinforcing subgrades conditions, e.g., road pavement, railway embankment, etc.