Empirical settlement predictions in overconsolidated Champlain Sea clays

Abstract

Using settlement observations published for several embankments on marine clays of the Champlain Sea, an empirical model is proposed to estimate long-term settlements. The effect of the overconsolidation ratio is taken into consideration within the model. Footing- and raft-type foundation cases are considered to give guidelines when using the model for these foundation types. A specific embankment resting on a foundation of high water content clay with a high compressibility index demonstrates that a correction factor should be applied under these conditions.Key words: settlement, embankment, Champlain Sea clay, consolidation, empirical model.