DFI Journal - The Journal of the Deep Foundations Institute
Volume 15, Issue 2, November 2021
DOI: 10.37308/DFIJnl.20201015.226
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Lateral Spreading and Stability of Embankments Supported on Fractured Unreinforced High-Modulus Columns
Article Type: Research Paper
Gallant, A. P. & Botero-Lopez, D.
Abstract
Construction of column-supported embankments (CSEs) with unreinforced high-modulus elements is now common practice to accelerate fill placement. These brittle columns are susceptible to column fracturing and CSE designs often limit the degree of lateral spreading such that tensile rupture will not occur, which stems from salient concerns that fracturing may trigger uncontrolled lateral spreading and/or the cessation of intended vertical load transfer. However, tensile rupture is unlikely to coincide with full mobilization of available passive resistance at the toe. Thus, it is disputed in industry whether some degree of column fracturing is tolerable. The objective of this study is to elucidate the influence of column fracturing on lateral spreading and stability of CSEs.
Keywords:
column supported embankments, high-modulus columns, column fracturing, crust, lateral spreading