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<p>Ordinary stone columns (OSCs) provide insufficient support for embankments on Sabkha soils with localized weak zones, resulting in excessive settlement and bulging. This study uses axisymmetric finite element analysis to show that partial reinforcement with a concrete segment (or core) of length <i>L</i><sub><i>CC</i></sub><i>,</i> starting from the column head, significantly enhances composite stone column (CSC) performance. The weak zone depth (<i>D</i><sub><i>WZ</i></sub>) governs system behavior, while the concrete core length-to-depth ratio (<i>L</i><sub><i>CC</i></sub><i>/D</i><sub><i>WZ</i></sub>) controls load transfer and deformation mechanisms. A critical threshold is identified at <i>L</i><sub><i>CC</i></sub><i>/D</i><sub><i>WZ</i></sub> = 1.0, where the concrete core fully penetrates the weak layer, reducing settlement by approximately 46% and lateral deformation by over 40% compared to OSCs, and increasing lateral confining stress by more than 70%. Stress analysis reveals distinct confinement peaks due to stiffness contrasts at the concrete–stone interface. A simplified cost–benefit assessment highlights this configuration as optimal, delivering substantial performance gains for a moderate cost premium of about 26%, with longer cores yielding diminishing returns. The study establishes the practical, mechanics-based design rule <i>L</i><sub><i>CC</i></sub> ≥ <i>D</i><sub><i>WZ</i></sub>. This fit-for-purpose solution offers a rational and economical alternative for embankment foundations on weak Sabkha soils, bridging the gap between inadequate OSCs and costly deep-stabilization methods.</p>

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Numerical Investigation of Partially Reinforced Composite Stone Columns Supporting Embankments Over Sabkha Soils

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年2月18日

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  • Abdelkader Dram,
  • Aissa Bensmaine,
  • Imad Eddine Debbabi

摘要

Ordinary stone columns (OSCs) provide insufficient support for embankments on Sabkha soils with localized weak zones, resulting in excessive settlement and bulging. This study uses axisymmetric finite element analysis to show that partial reinforcement with a concrete segment (or core) of length LCC, starting from the column head, significantly enhances composite stone column (CSC) performance. The weak zone depth (DWZ) governs system behavior, while the concrete core length-to-depth ratio (LCC/DWZ) controls load transfer and deformation mechanisms. A critical threshold is identified at LCC/DWZ = 1.0, where the concrete core fully penetrates the weak layer, reducing settlement by approximately 46% and lateral deformation by over 40% compared to OSCs, and increasing lateral confining stress by more than 70%. Stress analysis reveals distinct confinement peaks due to stiffness contrasts at the concrete–stone interface. A simplified cost–benefit assessment highlights this configuration as optimal, delivering substantial performance gains for a moderate cost premium of about 26%, with longer cores yielding diminishing returns. The study establishes the practical, mechanics-based design rule LCC ≥ DWZ. This fit-for-purpose solution offers a rational and economical alternative for embankment foundations on weak Sabkha soils, bridging the gap between inadequate OSCs and costly deep-stabilization methods.