A parametric study of geosynthetic reinforced embankments over deep cement mixed columns

This paper presents results of a parametric study on the performance of geosynthetic reinforced deep cement mixed (DCM) column supported embankments constructed over soft ground, incorporating the strain softening behavior of the columns. Two-dimensional plane-strain finite element models were employed to carry out the analysis. A number of parameters such as the modulus of DCM columns and soft soils, the stiffness of the geosynthetic layer and the location of the geosynthetic layer from the top of the DCM columns were varied to investigate their effects on the overall performance of the embankment with regard to the maximum total and differential settlements at the base and the crest of the embankment and the maximum tension in the geosynthetic reinforcement