Efficiency of Using Eucalyptus Wood to Reinforce Deep Cement Mixing Piles in Field: Pile Load and Embankment Tests

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the efficiency of using eucalyptus wood as a reinforced member in deep cement mixing (DCM) piles for Bangkok soft clay. Field pile load tests and full-scale embankment tests as supported by a rigid load transfer platform were performed in the field. Settlement of piles and surrounding soil, excess pore water pressure, and lateral movement of the surrounding soil at the toe of the embankment were monitored to understand the load transfer mechanism between the DCM piles and the surrounding soil. The results indicated that increasing the pile stiffness by inserting eucalyptus wood in the DCM piles could increase the load transfer from the embankment to the piles. As a result, the lateral movement, excess pore water pressure and settlement of the soil surrounding the piles decreased. Thus, DCM piles with eucalyptus wood are capable of reducing the differential settlement between DCM piles and surrounding soil.