Numerical modelling of highway embankments on extensive layers of soft soil

In order to evaluate the use of finite element analysis in design of embankments on soft soil, verifications with actual field measurements have been carried out. On the basis of site investigations and laboratory tests, a model for use in a finite element analysis has been set up. A full settle test site has been established and comparison between observations in the field and predictions using PLAXIS has been made, This comparison shows very good similarity between observed and calculated excess pore pressures and between observed and calculated settlements, E-specially the Soft Soil model captures the course of the settlements measured in the field very well.