Large‐Strain Consolidation and Settlement of Stratified Saturated Clay Deposits: A One‐Dimensional Semi‐Analytical Framework

ABSTRACT Large‐strain consolidation of stratified saturated clays is difficult to model analytically or even semi‐analytically within existing frameworks. This paper proposes a layer‐wise modal solution for one‐dimensional large‐strain consolidation of stratified saturated clay foundations. The formulation is developed in the Lagrangian coordinate system and considers the nonlinear evolution of compressibility and permeability. By using an exponential transformation, the nonlinear governing equation in each layer is converted into a linear diffusion equation. Unlike conventional approaches that determine undetermined coefficients from boundary and interface conditions, the proposed method introduces time‐dependent interface pore‐pressure functions and solves them through nonlinear flux‐continuity closure equations. The solution is verified against analytical solutions, COMSOL simulations, and field measurements from the Teven Road trial embankment. Results demonstrate its accuracy in predicting pore‐pressure dissipation and settlement evolution in stratified soft clay foundations.