Deformation Prediction of a Structure Placed on Soft Clay in Tokyo Bay Affected by Heavy Deep Well Pumping

Abstract

In analyzing behavior of soft clay foundations, it is important to properly estimate the initial stress state before construction begins. According to long-term observational pumping records of the wide area around Tokyo Bay, the water table in the ground dropped greatly by heavy deep well pumping and caused remarkable regional subsidence. We used one-dimensional FEM of soil–water coupling analysis to evaluate an initial stress state before the construction began. Ground deformation caused by the construction was predicted by two-dimensional FEM analysis using the initial stress state evaluated by 1-D analysis. The results of analysis were found to be in accord with the observed ground behavior.