Time-dependent biodegradation of jute drains and its sustainable role in radial consolidation

The biodegradation of jute vertical drains is a progressive, time-dependent process that impedes the drainage efficiency through fibre deterioration at the soil–drain interface. This study presents an integrated experimental framework, combining visual inspection, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis to quantify both the physical and chemical degradation of jute drains. An analytical radial consolidation model incorporating soil–drain interface properties is developed to back-calculate drain permittivity using consolidation test data for degraded jute drains subjected to varied submerged exposure durations. The coupled physical and biochemical mechanisms identified herein align with observations from large-scale consolidation tests and contribute to advancing sustainable ground improvement practices. From a sustainability perspective, the findings demonstrate the feasibility of jute drains as a low-carbon, biodegradable alternative to synthetic prefabricated vertical drains. The study facilitates a more reliable design of natural-fibre drains, enabling their adoption in ground improvement projects.