SETTLING COLUMNS PARAMETRIC TESTS APPLIED TO COASTAL SEDIMENT CONSOLIDATION

Abstract

This paper presents a set of devices and a study both experimental and original in order to determine the influence of various parameters on the sedimentation consolidation process of soft soils.We use this system to investigate the behaviour of a natural estuarine mud. A series of tests is performed, in which each test differs from the reference test in the value of only one parameter. We give a synthesis allowing the comparison of the action of each parameter on the mud behaviour. This systematic parametric experimental study builds an original data base, which is obviously necessary to validate theoretical modelization.