(b)

(i)

A saturated clay 4m thick with free-drainage at the top is underlain by an impermeable layer. The initial excess pore water distribution, due to a load of 100kPa, is 100kPa at ground level varying linearly to 50kPa at the top of the impermeable layer. Given that the coefficient of volumetric change and consolidation are 0.15MPa-1 and 3.6m2/year respectively. Determine the consolidation settlement after a year.

(ii)

Calculate the thickness of the layer of surcharge of unit weight 20kN/m3 required such that the surcharge can be removed after a year assuming the addition of the surcharge will result in an excess pore pressure distribution similar to the one given in part (b.i)

The way we work is this Final settlement ,Sf= mvH.P= 0.15/1000x4x(100-50)=0.03m From Tv=Cvt/d2 (drainage one direction), then 3.6x1/4x4=0.225 <0.6 Tv=Pi/4u2 , u=0.535 Then, St/Sf=U,Implies that, St = 0.535x0.03=0.016m=16mm (but incorrect according the exam answers)