Published Online:April 2026
Product Name:The IUP Journal of Structural Engineering
Product Type:Article
Product Code:IJSE030426
DOI:10.71329/IUPJSE/2026.19.2.39-56
Author Name:Md. Nurnabi Islam
Availability:YES
Subject/Domain:Engineering
Download Format:PDF
Pages:39-56
Ground improvement is a key concern in geotechnical engineering, especially for road pavements constructed over soft and low strength soils. The paper evaluates the effectiveness of different ground improvement techniques, specifically sand drains and stone columns constructed with either conventional stone aggregate or recycled construction and demolition (C&D) debris. Using PLAXIS 2D V20 software, numerical analyses were carried out to compare the performance of these methods in terms of settlement reduction and overall stability. The results show that C&D-filled stone columns can provide similar improvements as traditional stone columns when properly processed and graded. Additionally, the incorporation of sand drains accelerates consolidation and further reduces settlement. The use of C&D debris not only offers technical advantages but also addresses environmental and economic concerns by reducing reliance on natural resources and promoting recycling. This comparative analysis demonstrates the potential of combining sand drains and C&D-filled stone columns as sustainable and effective ground improvement solutions for road pavements over soft and low strength soil.
Ground improvement is a vital area in geotechnical engineering, as it directly addresses the challenges arising from problematic soil conditions that may create difficulties for the safe and economic construction of infrastructure.