Research on the effects of reinforced concrete piles on the seepage characteristics in sand foundation of under-dike culverts by physical model

Abstract

      The under-dike culverts is one of the important items constituting a dike system. Many culverts are built on permeation sensitive sand foundation. The solution for seepage modifications is driving impermeability sheet pile and driving reinforced concrete piles to increase the bearing capacity of the foundation, keep the settlement within allowable range. There have been many incidents of under-dike culverts on sand foundation due to seepage during the last time. As recorded, most of the incidents occurred adjacent to the culverts with the foundation supported by reinforced concrete piles. The problem is that reinforced concrete piles can change the characteristics of seepage flow, thereby increasing seepage deformation and leading to instability of the structure. In this study, a mathematical relation between the hydraulics, works, soil factors has established based on the
dimensional analysis method. On this basis, a new experimental model was designed to perform test series with different conditions. This paper presents the results of an experimental study to determine the change of seepage characteristics in the sand foundation of the under-dike culverts due to the influence of reinforced concrete piles