A new model for soil consolidation based on microstructure

This paper introduces a new means to predict consolidation deformation of soil from its microstructure. Based on a kind of pore-size distribution density function, a fractal model for soil consolidation is established. Through this model, the relation between macroscopic deformation and microcosmic pore property of soil is founded. In order to justify this proposed model for soil consolidation, consolidation experiments of soft clay are performed. Afterward, the microstructure of soft clay unconsolidated and consolidated under every pressure is studied by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that the proposed model for soil consolidation is valid in predicting consolidation deformation.