Effect of ultrasound on consolidation behavior of marine clay

We investigated the effectiveness of using ultrasound to accelerate the consolidation of soft marine clay. The soil samples were prepared from slurry and were dewatered to a desired water content and density using a centrifuge. The laboratory testing conducted included a consolidation test as well as determinations of index property, particle surface area, and pore size. The test results indicate that the amount of settlement increases considerably because of sonication. The time required for the same amount of settlement is shorter for the sonicated specimens. A considerable increase in the coefficient of permeability because of sonication is shown. Because of the sonication, particle surface area increases, while both the pore volume and pore size decrease. Scanning electron microscope images clearly show that after consolidation, the soil particles and pores of the sonicated test specimens are more densely packed than those of the unsonicated test specimens.