State space solution of non-axisymmetric Biot consolidation problem for multilayered porous media

In this paper, the non-axisymmetric Biot consolidation problem for multilayered porous media is studied. Taking stresses, pore pressure and displacements at layer interfaces as basic unknown functions, two sets of partial differential equations, which are independent each other, are formulated. Using Fourier expansion, Laplace transforms and Harkel transforms with respect to the circumferential, time and radial coordinates, respectively, the partial differential equations presented are reduced to the ordinary differential equations. Transfer matrices describing the transfer relation between the state vectors for a finite layer are derived explicitly in the transform space. Using the transfer matrices presented, three cases are studied for the lower surface: (1) permeable rough rigid base, (2) impermeable rough rigid base, and (3) poroelastic half space. The explicit solution in the transform space is presented. Considering the continuity condition at layer interfaces, the solutions of the non-axisymmetric Biot consolidation problems for multilayered semi-infinite porous media are presented in the integral form. The time histories of displacements, stresses and pore pressure are obtained by solving a linear equation system for discrete values of Laplace-Hankel transform inversions. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.