ABSTRACT
The objective of this paper is to visualize the load transfer and failure mechanisms over the system of earth reinforcement method with pile foundation using industrial X-ray CT scanner. A series of model test are conducted. Then, the behavior in the soil is scanned after the settlement using X-ray CT. Based on these results, the reinforcing effect by geogrid and the soil arching effect over the pile heads are discussed
ABSTRACT: When the embankment is constructed on soft ground, any kinds of geotechnical solutions, for example, pile foundation and deep mixing method, have been used for the purpose of reducing differential settlement. This paper deals with a combined method of pile foundations with earth reinforcement technology using geogrids. This type of the combined method offers decrease of load concentration on soft ground due to the reinforcing effect by geogrids. And it is considered that a search for the load transfer mechanism in three dimensions is important for the performance-based design of this method. Recently, an industrial X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) scanner has been developed and the behavior in the soils could be investigated without any destruction in three dimensions. The objective of this paper is to visualize load transfer mechanism in the system of reinforced soil beyond vertically loaded piles using industrial X-ray CT scanner. A series of model test were conducted. Then, the behavior in the soil was scanned during the settlement of the ground using X-ray CT scanner. Based on these results, the reinforcing effect by the geogrids and the soil arching effect over the pile heads were discussed precisely. And finally, the evaluation of failure mechanism of this system was examined, quantitatively.
