In the heart of Morocco, a groundbreaking study led by A. H. Mridakh from the Geological, Civil Engineering and Mathematical Modeling Laboratory at the Mines School of Rabat is set to revolutionize how we approach embankment construction on soft soils. The research, published in ‘Frontiers in Built Environment’ (Frontiers of the Built Environment), delves into the intricate behavior of soft soils in Sebou, a region critical for high-speed railway infrastructure.
The study focuses on the use of prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs) to stabilize soft soils, a common challenge in construction projects. Traditional creep models often fall short in predicting the actual behavior of these soils, leading to discrepancies between predicted and measured outcomes. Mridakh’s team addressed this issue by employing an advanced anisotropic creep constitutive model, known as Creep-SCLAY1S. This model takes into account fabric anisotropy, soil structure, and time-dependent behavior, providing a more nuanced understanding of soil deformation.
“Our findings indicate that the Creep-SCLAY1S model offers a significant improvement in predicting in situ measurements, particularly post-construction,” Mridakh explains. “This is crucial for ensuring the stability and longevity of infrastructure projects, especially in areas with soft soils.”
The research also compared the Creep-SCLAY1S model with the time-dependent soft soil creep model (SSCM), further validating the accuracy of the advanced model. The results showed that Creep-SCLAY1S not only provides more accurate predictions but also offers a better understanding of peak excess pore pressure during the embankment’s rapid surcharge phase.
The implications of this research are vast, particularly for the energy sector. As infrastructure projects, including pipelines and power plants, often rely on stable foundations, the ability to accurately predict soil behavior is paramount. “This research could significantly reduce the risk of costly delays and failures in construction projects,” Mridakh notes. “By providing more reliable predictions, we can enhance the efficiency and safety of infrastructure development.”
The study’s findings are poised to shape future developments in the field, encouraging the adoption of more advanced modeling techniques. As the demand for high-speed railways and other critical infrastructure continues to grow, the need for precise soil behavior predictions becomes ever more pressing. Mridakh’s work paves the way for more accurate and efficient construction practices, ensuring that future projects are built on solid ground.
