Briefing: Learning from vibro stone column failures

Abstract

Much can be learnt about the behaviour of vibro stone column reinforced soils by undertaking a forensic examination of case histories of ‘unsatisfactory performance’, or what might be termed ‘failures’ in some applications and by identifying the main causes; it is not unusual for there to be more than one cause. Back analysis of such data provides an opportunity for greater insight into mechanisms that patently cannot be examined in successful case histories and also makes an important contribution to the advancement of both design and understanding, in addition to more effectively identifying and managing risk.