Model Tests on Deformation Behavior of Soft Ground Under Embankment

When embankments are constructed on soft clay deposit, unsymmetrical surcharges due to embankments may generate the excessive vertical settlement and lateral deformation of soft clay foundation. The excessive deformations in soft grounds cause not only stability problem of the embankment itself but also that of the adjacent structures. The objectives of this research are to study the deformational behavior of soft ground due to the embankment load with different loading and soil conditions. Five model tests are carried out with different test conditions. From the results of the model tests, it is concluded that the lateral displacement induced by the embankment load occurs in the range of two times of the embankment width from a toe. In addition, the relationship between loading rate, v, and the vertical settlement of the soft ground, , and the lateral displacement at the toe of embankment, , is investigated based on the model test results.