Consolidation is a process in which water is squeezed out of soils as a function of time, with a resultant reduction in soil volume. The resulting problems involve time dependent settlement of buildings, tanks, embankments, fills, and other "structures." In case of dredged materials and waste "slimes" from the mining industry, the problem is usually that there are huge quantities of waste material that we wish to concentrate to a smaller volume through the consolidation process. "Design" involves predicting the rate of consolidation so ample storage areas can be planned and used efficiently. Classical analyses involve grossly simplifying assumptions and have limited accuracy, requiring that the answers be adjusted using "engineering judgment." In this proposal, the PI proposes research to develop analytical methods that account for large strains, multidirectional water flow, and other such effects, thus allowing realistic solutions to problems involving efficient and economical disposal of such materials.
