Advanced geotechnical monitoring of prefabricated vertical drains in soft clay

Tarek Abdoun, Victoria Bennett, Matthew Barendse

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

The work presented in this paper identifies the advantages of using autonomous monitoring at construction sites utilizing ground improvement techniques. The Shape-Acceleration Array (SAA) utilizes Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technologies. The SAA is capable of measuring in situ (field) 3D ground deformation every 0.305 meters and 3D soil vibration at 2.4 m intervals up to a depth of one hundred meters. The system accuracy of the SAA is ±1.5 mm per 30 m; an empirically derived specification from a large number of datasets. This sensor array can be installed vertically, in a method similar to that used for traditional inclinometer casing, or horizontally. Each sensor array is connected to a wireless sensor node to enable real-time monitoring as well as remote sensor configuration. This paper presents the performance monitoring of a full-scale embankment constructed on a thirty-meter deposit of soft clay at a bridge replacement site in upstate New York. Prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs) and surcharge loads were used at this site to accelerate the consolidation of the soft clay deposit. Two thirty meter long SAAs were used to monitor the horizontal and vertical movement of the embankment. Comparative results between the SAA systems and traditional instrumentation are also presented.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationGeotechnical Society of Singapore - International Symposium on Ground Improvement Technologies and Case Histories, ISGI'09
Pages361-366
Number of pages6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2010
EventInternational Symposium on Ground Improvement Technologies and Case Histories, ISGI'09 - Singapore, Singapore
Duration: Dec 9 2009Dec 12 2009

Publication series

NameGeotechnical Society of Singapore - International Symposium on Ground Improvement Technologies and Case Histories, ISGI'09

Other

OtherInternational Symposium on Ground Improvement Technologies and Case Histories, ISGI'09
Country/TerritorySingapore
CitySingapore
Period12/9/0912/12/09

Keywords

  • Construction monitoring
  • MEMS
  • Settlement
  • Vertical drains

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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