Numerical and Experimental Studies on Single Stone Columns

Abstract

In this study, through some laboratory tests, the influence of the encasement (routine and ringy) and gravel mattress (with and without geotextile) on the behavior of stone columns is studied. The primary objective of the tests was to compare the effectiveness of vertical encapsulating of stone columns in the same conditions for various encasing patterns with that of the gravel mattress. A 2D-numerical approach also provides the opportunity to investigate the reasons for changes in bearing capacity of stone columns encased by routine and ringy patterns and the various replacement areas. Results present a better understanding of the load-settlement behavior of stone columns with various encasement types. Encasement is more effective in improving the column bearing capacity of larger diameter columns than smaller ones.