Abstract

This paper deals with a simplified approach of predicting the time of consolidation settlement for a multi-layered foundation using the coupling technique for settlement and unsettlement zones in a specific compressible layer and layers. According to MIT’s lecture, every two layers should combine into one having an equivalent degree of consolidation or having an equivalent thickness of consolidation. From this valuable guideline, several procedures are developed to tackle the specific problem of the settlement of a multi-layered foundation. This study also introduces an idea for coupling the layers, concerning the drainage path during combining every two layers, and some practical points are suggested.

Keywords: Consolidation settlement; Equivalent coefficient of consolidation Cv,eq; Thickness Heq; Settlement zones