Numerical modeling of geogrid reinforced stone column groups with Plaxis 3D

Abstract

Unlike reinforced concrete bored piles, unreinforced stone columns may not be able to safely withstand high structural loads. In this study, stress-strain behavior of stone column groups under vertical loads and the effect of geosynthetic reinforcement will be examined. The physical and mechanical properties of the soil, columns and geogrids to be used in this study will be determined by considering the material parameters available in previous studies. Within the scope of the study, the bearing capacity and settlement of stone column groups placed under the raft foundation in different configurations will be discussed. In this context, loading tests will be carried out on standard and geogrid reinforced stone column groups to investigate the effect of geosynthetic coating reinforcement on settlement amounts and bearing capacities in the improved soil cell. As a result of the study, findings regarding the effect of geosynthetic reinforcement on the mechanical properties of group stone columns were reported. Based on the numerical analyses results, it is observed that the wrapped stone columns having 3×D center to center spacing can be taken as the optimum pattern for the site applications while decreasing the foundation deformations effectively. It is believed that the results of the study may pave the way to the development of a novel stone column manufacturing technique that can be more efficient in terms of both strength and economy.