The behaviour of embankments on clay foundations

The present design practice for embankments on clay foundations is reviewed and its shortcomings are evidenced.A detailed analysis of field observations shows that the actual foundation behaviour differs significantly from the postulated sequence of undrained construction reponse and drained long-term consolidation. In particular a significant consolidation occurs during the very first stages of embankment construction.Design methods are reviewed and modified if necessary to account for this phenomenon. The new design approach, while largely empirical, is simpler and more reliable than existing methods.