Theoretical and experimental study of consolidation settlement characteristics of hydraulic fill soil in Shanghai

To determine the influence of load and drainage on the engineering consolidation characteristics of hydraulic fill soil in Shanghai, a detailed study has been carried out using three controlled model tests under different conditions. The governing equation of one-dimensional large strain consolidation with the load and self-weight was also quoted to discuss the influence. Three consolidation settlement stages and two consolidation periods of growth in strength were observed. The effect of applying load was more obvious than improving drainage condition in the first consolidation time. Prolonging consolidation time had no significant influence on increasing strength. It is shown that the increase in strength is concentrated in the first period of consolidation and the load and drainage play their different roles in different consolidation periods. Conclusively, some relevant recommendations are offered for the construction of hydraulic fill soil.