The Prediction of Consolidation Rates in a Cemented Clay

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Abstract
The principal aim of this paper is to compare laboratory settlement and pore pressure dissipation rates of undisturbed Leda clay with those predicted from a modified consolidation theory developed by Raymond (1966a). The theoretical curves have been computed using directly measured values of the soil permeability and incorporate the variation with void ratio of both permeability and compressibility. The experimental data (obtained from the triaxial apparatus) indicate that the predicted rates of consolidation, and especially of pore water dissipation, are likely to be grossly in error owing to the cemented nature of the soil structure. This factor appears to be partially described by the theory of Barden (1965), although quantitative evaluation of the constants involved in this theory has not been possible.The paper also considers two other aspects of the consolidation of Leda clay. (1) The rate of secondary consolidation varies significantly with consolidation pressure and appears to reflect the changes in compressibility revealed by the void ratio vs. log pressure curve. (2) The variation of soil properties with depth at the Ottawa treatment plant site influences all aspects of the consolidation behaviour of the clay.Available field data have been included in the paper where relevant to the discussion.

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