Experimental Study of Bearing Capacity in Single and Group Stone Columns With and Without Encasement

Abstract

Stone columns are regarded as one of the most influential soil-stabilizing methods, capable of significantly increasing the strength and workability of soft soil foundations. In this experimental study, some laboratory tests on various model stone columns were performed in order to improve its workability. They are made up of various gravel shapes and particle distributions, as well as columns reinforced with geotextile reinforcements. Model stone column were tested for load carrying capacity. Various soil parameters such as soil moisture content and shear strength variation with respect to depth was also measured. The model stone columns were tested for cased versus uncased condition and also tested for single versus group effect of stone column. The test results were compared appropriately for cased versus uncased condition and single versus group of stone columns. It has been revealed that using, geotextile reinforcements increase their load-carrying capacity, providing a group of stone columns also enhances the consolidation properties of clay and load carrying capacity compared to single stone column. Moisture dissipation in the clay bed was found to be greatest for the group of three stone columns.