Abstract:
In this study, investigations were undertaken to analyze the feasibility of using prefabricated vertical drain (PVD) made of natural fibre like jute in accelerating the consolidation process of soft soil under surcharge. To do it, soft soil parameters consisting of index properties, shear strength properties and consolidation parameters of Mirpur (Dhaka) Clay have been investigated. Mechanical properties of jute filter fabric have been adopted from the work of Mohy (2005). Soil settlement has been observed for 4 weeks without the use of vertical drains and also with the use of synthetic and jute PVD. It is seen from the test results that jute PVD clearly fulfills almost all the requirements set by Roads & Highways Department of Bangladesh. Cost feasibility analysis shows that synthetic PVD is two times costlier than jute PVD.
