Evaluation of Discharge Capacity for Gravel mat due to Geosynthetic Using Calibration Chamber Test

ABSTRACT To create a large-scale complex, it is often the case to perform ground improvement by using vertical drain method after the reclamation of coastal soft ground, for construction period shortening and stable site renovation. During this process, the pore water migrates to the horizontal drainage layer of the ground surface through the vertical drain installed in the soft ground and discharged out to the open. In the past sand was used as the material for the horizontal drainage layer in numerous cases, however recently, due to material shortage and high pricing, the use of crushed stones has increased. To prevent mixing of the materials between the horizontal drainage layer and the upper landfill, geosynthetics (PPMat) are installed. However, the use of geosynthetics results in high additional cost for material purchase and installation, therefore it is necessary to examine the validity of the installation itself. In this study, to verify the necessity, model tests were performed. Results from the model tests indicate that the drainage ability of the horizontal drainage layer is barely affected by the application of geosynthetics.