A review of isotache modeling and secondary consolidation behavior of soft clays

Abstract

Secondary consolidation of soils has gained much importance as a major contributor in the long term settlements of soft clays. In the scenario where constructions on such problematic soils are increasing, accurate prediction of long term settlements is very challenging. This paper reviews the evolution of the secondary compression characteristics from the concept of Cα to the creep isotaches. The generation of the 3 D elastic viscoplastic model from the equivalent time (isotache) approach is also discussed in this paper. This model is an extension of Maxwell’s rheological model. With relevance to Indian soils, the secondary compression characteristics of Kuttanad and Cochin marine clay are also reported in this paper.