A series of geotechnical centrifuge model tests and numerical modelling have been performed to study engineering
characteristics of the composite ground reinforced by both the Sand Compaction Piles (SCPs) and the deformation-reducing sheet piles. The research has covered several key issues such as the load- settlement relation, the stress concentration ratio and the final water content if the ground Totally three centrifuge tests have been conducted by changing configuration of the sheet piles, i.e., a test without the sheet pile, a test with the sheet pile at a single side and a test with the sheet piles at the both sides. In the model tests, a vertical load was applied in-flight on the ground surface. On the other hand, class-C type numerical modelling has been performed by using the SAGE-CRISP to compare the centrifuge test results using an elasto-plastic model for SCPs and the Modified Cam Clay model for the soft clay. It has been found that the sheet piles can restraint failure of foundation, thereby increasing yield stress of the ground The stress concentration ratio was in the range of 2~4. In addition, numerical analysis results showed reductions both in the ground heave (20~30%) and in the horizontal movement (28~43%), demonstrating the deformation-reducing effect of the sheet piles. |