Theoretical Study on Consolidation of Slurry Treated by PHDs‐VP Considering Clogging Effect and Vacuum Preloading Process

ABSTRACT Prefabricated horizontal drains combined with vacuum preloading (PHDs‐VP) have addressed the shortcomings of prefabricated vertical drains combined with vacuum preloading (PVDs‐VP), beginning to emerge as a popular method for dredged slurry treatment. However, theoretical research on PHDs‐VP consolidation is relatively scarce. This study proposes a novel analytical model for predicting the consolidation behavior of the slurry treated by PHDs‐VP. This model treats the PHDs layer as a continuous drainage layer. Analytical solutions considering the clogging effect and the vacuum preloading process have been derived. The correctness and applicability of the proposed model have been verified through degeneration analysis and comparison with laboratory experimental data. Subsequently, an in‐depth sensitivity analysis of parameters has been conducted to assess the influence on consolidation. The research findings indicate that the clogging effect significantly reduces the consolidation rate, while the influence of the increasing rate in vacuum pressure is relatively minor. Additionally, increasing the slurry filling rate and the PHDs layout density can both accelerate soil consolidation. These findings offer significant guidance for the implementation of PHDs‐VP method in engineering.