Non-linear self-weight consolidation model of saturated soft soil under large-strain condition

Based on the piecewise-linear method, a one-dimensional self-weight consolidation model (i.e. SWC model) of saturated soft soil, which considers the large strain and non-linear changes of geotechnical parameters, is developed in this paper. The calculation results of the SWC model are validated by analytical solution and experimental measurements. The SWC model is applicable in investigating the variation processes of settlement magnitude, average consolidation degree, distribution of porosity and excess pore water pressure, etc. Then, based on field tests, impacts of parameters (e.g. initial height, initial void ratio, boundary drainage conditions of soil, and specific gravity of soil grain) on the self-weight consolidation process are studied in this proposed SWC model. Simulation results indicate that the above four parameters have significant influence on the process of soft soil self-weight consolidation. The final settlement magnitude and average strain increase with the increase in initial soil height. The boundary drainage condition only affects the time of self-weight consolidation but does not change the final settlement magnitude. The final settlement magnitude increases with increasing initial void ratio and specific gravity of soil solids. Moreover, the time of self-weight consolidation decreases with increasing initial void ratio and specific gravity of soil solids.