CHAPTER 9

Preconsolidation
Preconsolidation was introduced in Chapter 6 as a method of deep densification, and then mentioned again in Chapter 7 as a method of hydraulic modification because it technically is a means of dewatering saturated fine-grained
soils. While preconsolidation is both of these, it is for the most part a method
to improve a site by reducing future settlements and increasing strength. Thus,
it provides a direct benefit to improved foundation performance, allows more
economical solutions to constructing projects on soft, compressible soils, and
even permits economical construction where it may not otherwise be feasible.
This chapter presents the current state of practice and methodologies to
improving a site by preloading and draining prior to construction.

9.1 PRECONSOLIDATION CONCEPTS AND

METHODOLOGIES
When a load is applied from a new structure, embankment, or fill to a site
underlain by soft saturated fine-grained soils, the load will initially be taken
in part by the relatively incompressible water in the soil pores, transferring that
load to excess pore water pressures. With time, the excess water pressure will
dissipate as the load is transferred to the soil matrix, the soil consolidates, and
settlement occurs. Long-term settlement can be the most critical parameter for
many types of construction over soft compressible soils. The fundamental
concept of preconsolidation is to load the soil prior to construction such that
the soil can be compressed, thereby strengthening the soil and greatly reducing
future settlement once the project is completed. Consolidation settlement is a
stress- and time-dependent process based on applied load and soil compressibility parameters, as well as geometry and drainage conditions. Therefore,
variation of each parameter will play an important role in the magnitude
(amount) and rate (time) at which desired consolidation may be achieved.
As consolidation is often difficult to accurately predict, it is imperative to
closely monitor actual field progress of deformation and pore pressure generation/dissipation, and adjust prediction analyses accordingly.
A very simple approach to preconsolidation is to apply a surcharge load
approximately equal to the final design load anticipated for the completed
Soil Improvement and Ground Modification
Methods

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