Field applications of explosive compaction in silty soils and numerical analysis

The paper discusses observations and results from a recent explosive compaction field trial carried out in Japan in fine silty sand and silt subsoils including: measured ground settlements, vibration monitoring, and pre- and post-blast penetration and shear wave velocity testing. Methods used to simulate blast-induced ground motions, including application of simplified wave superposition approaches, and nonlinear finite element models used to predict blast-induced volume change and residual pore water pressure build-up are also discussed. Pronounced time effects in build-up in penetration test results following blasting were observed.