One-dimensional consolidation of over-consolidated soil under time-dependent loading

The problem of one-dimensional consolidation of over-consolidated saturated soil under time-dependent loading was studied based on semi-analytical method. The relevant computer code was developed by FORTRAN programming, and one-dimensional consolidation behavior of over-consolidated soil was investigated. It is shown that, unlike this described by traditional Terzaghi's consolidation theory, the rate of excess pore water pressure dissipation is different from that of settlement developing. The magnitude of load and that of pre-consolidation pressure as well as the loading rate has all significant influence on consolidation. With the increasing of pre-consolidation pressure and loading rate, the rate of consolidation increases correspondingly. However, an increase in load will slow down the consolidation rate. © 2008 Higher Education Press.