ABSTRACT: A one-dimensional consolidation model of the isotach-type law is proposed for normally consolidated clays which
have neither interparticle bonding nor sensitive structure. At first, the mechanical quantities that can absolutely define a consolidation state without employing any arbitrary reference state are examined, and it is concluded that specific volume, f (= 1+ e), effective stress, s', and natural strain rate, e_n, are best. Next, the existence of a single relationship f -s'-e_n  after compressional yielding is verified by the results obtained from various types of laboratory consolidation tests with the measurement of long-term secondary settlement. Then, a way of conceptualizing how to incorporate this relationship into the new consolidation model is introduced, and numerical simulations based on the new model are shown for clay layers of field-size. And finally, the simulation results are used to discuss the application limits of the Terzaghi theory.

Key words: clay, consolidation model, isotach law, numerical simulation, one-dimensional analysis, secondary consolidation, viscous effect (IGC: D5/E2)