Ground Improvement Between Stone Columns: a Performance Study on Various Soil Types Using In-Situ Testing

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of ground improvement between stone columns in various soil types, including coarse and fine tailings, clay with organic traces, and overconsolidated fine grained soils. 

A series of trial pads were constructed to evaluate the performance of stone columns with different replacements ratios. CPTu tests were conducted outside the improved area and between the stone columns, and variations were analysed to understand the improvement achieved in each soil type, in terms of soil behaviour type, state parameter, peak and residual strength. 

The findings of this research demonstrate the viability of stone columns as an effective ground improvement technique across some of the coarser soil units and provides insights into their impact on finer materials.

Authors

Lisandro Roldan | Senior Geotechnical Engineer | SRK Argentina

Mauro Giuliano Sottile | Principal Geotechnical Engineer | SRK Argentina

Alejo Sfriso | Group Chair, Corporate Consultant (Geotechnical Engineering) | SRK

Joe Rola | Principal Geotechnical Engineer | SRK Australia

 

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