Abstract:

ABSTRACT
Article History:
Received: 22/5/2025
Accepted: 17/8/2025
This study examines the effects of installing stone columns in soft clay using numerical
simulations of small-scale laboratory tests. These tests involve reinforcing Kaolin
specimens with sand columns constructed using two techniques: simple replacement
without compaction and replacement with compaction. After installation, the
specimens were subjected to loading to evaluate their mechanical behavior. A
parametric study was conducted to assess the influence of key factors, including area
replacement ratio, geogrid confinement, column length, and intensity of compaction
stress. The results showed that settlement reduction is proportional to the area
replacement ratio, column length, and the stiffness of the geogrid encasement. For a
16% area replacement ratio, the relative settlement decreased from 14.6% to 12.1%,
with a corresponding stress concentration ratio of 1.92. When geogrid confinement
was applied, settlement was further reduced to 6.9% and stress concentration ratio
increased to 15.9. Moreover, columns installed with compaction led to a 20% reduction
in the void ratio near the column, lowering the settlement to 9.23%. This reduction was
directly related to the intensity of the compaction stress applied. The study highlighted
the importance of the column installation method on the behavior of reinforced soils

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