The response of soft clays reinforced with single granular columns has been the subject of a number of laboratory-scale and triaxial experimental programs in the past. However, given that granular columns are seldom designed and/or constructed as individual elements, there is a clear need to identify and quantify group effects. The objective of this study is to cater for this need by designing and implementing a triaxial testing program in which soft clay specimens, 14.5-cm in diameter and 29.5-cm long, are reinforced with multiple sand columns and tested in a consolidated drained triaxial setting. Results indicated that at area replacement ratios of 17% and 30%, there was an increase in the ultimate strength of the specimen by 12% and 43%, respectively. It was also shown that stress concentration ratios in the range of 4 to 6 could be mobilized at very low strains. It is anticipated that results from the tests completed in the study will facilitate the development/improvement of design methodologies of soft clays that are reinforced with sand column groups.
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