MODELING OF SOIL DENSIFICATION BY VIBROFLOTATION

A model probe was constructed and a series of densification tests run in a laboratory test bed. The model probe was 2.6 in (66 mm) in diameter and 0.305 m long, powered by a 1/2-hp motor. The primary soil used in the tests was a poorly graded beach sand, maximum density=115.7 pcf. A gravelly sand, maximum density=113.8 pcf was used mainly as a backfill soil. Five separate tests were performed using these two soils in various combinations and at various initial densities. Details of the tests are outlined and the results and conclusions are presented. The final relative density at a given distance from the probe is a function of the initial relative density. The gravelly sand is a better backfill than that achieved at several probe radii from the center. The amount of backfill accepted was seen to be a function of depth, decreasing with increasing depth. It was observed that while the probe is working to densify the soil maximum input power is required and once maximum density is finally achieved at a given depth, the power input required goes to a minimum. At shallow depths, however, this phenomenon was not observed as large input powers are required and the soil appears to fail via heaving at the surface.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/3519342
• Corporate Authors:

  American Society of Civil Engineers

  345 East 47th Street
  New York, NY  United States  10017-2398
• Authors:
  • Metzger, G V
  • Koerner, R M
• Publication Date: 1975-4

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: p. 417-421
• Serial:
  • Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
  • Volume: 101
  • Issue Number: GT4
  • Publisher: American Society of Civil Engineers
  • ISSN: 1090-0241
  • Serial URL: http://ojps.aip.org/gto

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Backfilling; Depth; Failure; Gravel; Laboratory tests; Mathematical models; Power; Probes (Measuring devices); Sand; Soil densification; Specific gravity
• Uncontrolled Terms: Heaving; Models
• Old TRIS Terms: Backfills; Probing; Vibroflotation
• Subject Areas: Energy; Geotechnology; Highways;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00096257
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: Tech. Note
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 15 1975 12:00AM