Reverse-consolidation analysis of basal soil with layered heterogeneity using the spectral Galerkin method

Abstract

The reverse-consolidation caused by excavation inevitably affects the bearing capacity of basal soil to resist water pressure in confined aquifers, posing a risk to excavation stability. However, there is still a lack of efficient solutions to incorporate the layered heterogeneity into the analysis of the reverse-consolidation. This study proposes a practical approach where the spectral Galerkin method is used to capture the variation of soil properties with depth. The boundaries are characterized by time-dependent drainage boundary conditions to simulate the excavation process. The excess pore-water pressure profile is described by a single expression calculated by common matrix operations. The rationality and accuracy of the practical approach are verified by existing analytical models and field data. Subsequently, the permeability coefficient variability, relatively impervious interlayer, and sand interlayer are analyzed to illustrate their effects on the reverse-consolidation behavior of basal soil. Results indicate that the distribution of excess pore-water pressure is significantly influenced by the variability and distribution form of the permeability coefficient. The relatively impervious interlayer delays the dissipation of excess pore-water pressure and bears a large hydraulic gradient, while the sand interlayer is the opposite. These above influences become more significant as the excavation progresses due to the time effect.