Consolidation
Consolidation
Consolidation
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).
Consider an element of soil of constant area dx . dy and thickness dz, free to drain in the z
direction only. Let the element be subjected to an increment of total stress ∆σ, instantaneously
applied and held constant. Assuming Darcy’s Law to be valid, then the rate of flow of water into
the element is given by;
∂h
v z dx dy = -k dx dy (1.1)
∂z
∂ ∂h ∂2h
-k dx dy
dz = -k dx dy dz (1.2)
∂z ∂z ∂z 2
Recall that the soil is assumed saturated and all water is contained within the void volume,
where, the relationship between void volume Vv and total volume V0 at the beginning of the load
increment is given by:
e dx dy dz
Vv = V0 = e (1.4)
1 + e0 1+ e 0
dx dy dz
where, Vs = a constant value on the assumption of grain incompressibility
1+ e 0
Since the soil is assumed saturated and soil grains incompressible (at the typical consolidation
stress level), the rate of reduction of the void volume must be equal to the rate of water out-flow
from the element, hence,
∂Vv ∂2h dx dy dz ∂e
= k dx dy dz = (1.5)
∂t ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
∂2h 1 ∂e
k 2 = (1.6)
∂z 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall that the total pressure head h is given by (elevation head + hydrostatic pressure head +
excess pore pressure head due to changes in total stress):
h = z + u h γ w + u γ w , where uh = hw γw (1.7)
∂2h ∂2 u 1
= (1.8)
∂z 2 ∂z 2 γ w
k ∂2u 1 ∂e
= (1.9)
γ w ∂z 2 1+ e0 ∂t
Recall the definition for mv equation (1.4), recognizing that e decreases w.r.t. ∆σ/
1 de
mv = -
1+ e0 dσ ′
(1.10)
1 ∂ e ∂t
= -
1+ e0 ∂σ ′ ∂t
k ∂2u ∂σ ′
= − mv (1.11)
γ w ∂z 2 ∂t
∂2u ∂u ∂σ
cv 2 = - (1.13)
∂z ∂t ∂t
∂2 u ∂u
cv = (1.14)
∂z 2 ∂t
This partial differential equation (Equation (2.14)) is of parabolic type, where analytical
solutions can be obtained for different boundary conditions. In this context the boundary
conditions shall refer to the values of excess pore water pressure u (the value of the porewater
pressure at time t and depth z). Solutions exist for various pore water pressure ratios from the
top to the bottom of the layer (these shall be illustrated further in the lectures).
In the solution that follows we shall assume that a compressible saturated clay layer is bounded
at its upper and lower boundaries with “free draining” granular soils (the permeability of the
soils at these boundaries being very high, such that the boundary conditions at any time t after
the application of ∆σ are: u = 0, at z = 0, z = 2d for t > 0
1
n=∞
nπz n 2 π2cv t
2d
nπz
u (z, t) = ∑ ∫ u 0 sin dz sin exp - (1.16)
n=1 d 0 2d 2d 4d 2
Where,
d = drainage path length
u0 = initial excess pore water pressure
n=∞
2u 0 nπz n 2 π2cv t
u (z, t) = ∑ (1- cos n π ) sin exp - (1.17)
n=1 nπ 2d 4d 2
when n is even (1 – cos nπ) = 0 and when n is odd (1 – cos nπ) = 2. Hence only odd values need
be considered, making these substitutions;
n = 2m + 1, m = 0, 1, 2, 3, ∞
π
M = ( 2m +1)
2
cv t
Tv =
d2
m=∞
Mz
u (z, t) = ∑
2u 0
M
sin
d
( 2
exp - M Tv
) (1.18)
m=0
u0 - u u
Uz = = 1- (1.19)
u0 u0
m= ∞
2 Mz
Uz = 1− ∑ M sin d
( 2
exp - M Tv ) (1.20)
m=0
In practical field problems it is the average degree of consolidation over the depth of the layer
that is typically of interest, the consolidation settlement at time t being given by the product of U
m= ∞
U = 1− ∑M
2
2 (
exp - M 2 Tv ) (1.21)
m=0
The resulting relationship between U and Tv from the above equation is illustrated in Fig. 7.18
(Craig 1997).