Consolidation of Soils Under Cyclic Loading

Abstract

A theoretical solution for the progress of consolidation of a saturated soil layer subjected to cyclic loading is obtained.Consolidation, proceeding inwards from the drainage face, is slower than consolidation under an equivalent sustained loading because positive and negative pore-water pressures, produced during the loaded and unloaded portion of the cycle, cause flow of water from and into the soil. An equilibrium, or finalized, consolidation ratio is reached which is dependent on the pattern of loading cycle; it is not possible to reach 100% consolidation under cyclic loading.