Numerical Simulation of Ground Improvement Using Stone Column in Silts

Ground improvement techniques are widely employed across various construction sites to address the challenges posed by weak or unstable soil conditions. Such techniques are essential when existing soil properties could result in poor structural performance. Among the many methods available to enhance soft soil characteristics, the use of stone columns stands out as particularly effective. This approach involves the installation of compacted stone pillars to strengthen and stabilize the soil. This study encompasses a comprehensive analysis of raft footing on silty soil reinforced with vibro-stone columns. It evaluates the settlement behavior, and liquefaction potential, providing crucial insights into the performance of these reinforced foundations. The application of stone columns has proven to be highly effective in mitigating soil settlement. This study examines the performance characteristics of stone columns with a diameter of 0.5 meters, each maintaining a length-to-diameter ratio (L/D) of 10. The findings from the parametric study indicate that an increase in the diameter of the stone column results in a corresponding reduction in settlement. Numerical analyses were conducted using the software PLAXIS 3D to evaluate the impact of stone columns. After the installation of stone columns, the soil settlement was reduced by 79%.