Finite Element Analyses of Consolidation with radial peripheral drainage
Abstract
This paper looks at finite element analyses, using the Cam clay model, of the problem of consolidation of a clay mass with outward radial peripheral drainage. Emphasis is placed on the effect of the stiffness of the loading platen and hence two cases of a rigid and a flexible platens are used. Both cases predict non-uniform distribution of stresses and strains at the end of consolidation, and hence non-uniformity in soil stiffness and strength. The analyses also indicate that the middle of the soil mass swells during the early stages of consolidation. This shows that while the Cam clay model is satisfactory in modelling the yielding behaviour of clay, a more appropriate model which takes into account observed elastic-plastic behaviour during swelling is now required in such analyses.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Grouting
Rheology
and Soil Mechanics
Geotechnical Engineering and Soil Mechanics
Soil and Unsaturated Flow
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Numerical models in geomechanics, volume 1
- Publisher
- CRC Press
- Pages
- 441–452
- Publication date
- 20 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter