ABSTRACT
In a large-scale embankment project, 1.3 million m3 in volume and 43 m high at its highest, core blocks (about 100,000 m3 in volume) were constructed inside the high embankment slope to improve its stability. The core blocks were made of cement-stabilized weathered pyroclastic deposits. In order to monitor the stability of the embankment, made up of volcanic cohesive soil, various types of measuring equipment were installed inside the ground and the core blocks. In addition, large panel-type earth pressure gauges were installed on the sides of the core blocks. First, the rigidity of core blocks relative to that of the embankment is discussed on the basis of measurements made by an inclinometer installed inside the core blocks. Second, measurements by a settlement gauge installed inside the embankment were used to verify the settlement is at a standstill thereby confirming the stability of the entire embankment. The long-term external force acting on the relatively rigid core blocks inside the embankment was then used in the calculation of the coefficients of earth pressure. The values of kv and kh obtained in this manner were kv = 0.4 and kh = 0.4.
