Numerical simulation of soft ground improved with cement

This paper examines, using a numerical model based on the finite element method, the undrained bearing capacity of shallow circular footings on soft ground improved with deep cement mixing. Guidelines are given to identify the importance of the degree of cementation on the bearing capacity of shallow footings. Using a bearing capacity improvement factor, the influence of the degree of cementation and the extent of the cemented region on bearing capacity has been investigated. Finally, the performance of deep cement-mixed columns has been investigated using the numerical model. The results indicate that there exists an optimum length to diameter ratio for the deep mixed cement columns and this optimum ratio depends on the degree of cementation of the soil.