The Theory of One-Dimensional Consolidation of Saturated Clays

Synopsis The equation governing the one-dimensional consolidation of a fully saturated clay layer are derived here on the basis of assumptions more general than those usually adopted. The limitation of small strains has not been imposed and the variation of soil compressibility and permeability during consolidation has been taken into account. Furthermore, although Darcy's law is assumed to be valid, it is recast in a form in which it is the relative velocity of the soil skeleton and the pore fluid that is related to the excess pore fluid pressure gradient. The consolidation of a thin clay layer, the self-weight stresses of which are negligible compared with those applied, is examined in detail. Non-homogeneity, time-effects intrinsic to the soil skeleton and compressibility of the pore fluid are incorporated in the theory, but a detailed consideration of their importance is deferred to later papers in which the case of the thick clay layer will also be presented. Les equation regissant la consolidation a...