Soft Ground Improvements Using Natural Fiber

Abstract:

In this study, natural fiber drains made with coconut coir, rice straw and jute filter were tested to evaluate their practical applicability if used in fields properly. Firstly, the tensile strength, and discharge capacity of the natural fiber drains were tested and verified prior to usage. Based on the test results, natural fiber drains excelled in tensile strength, but their initial discharge capacity obtained from composite discharge capacity tests was less than that of plastic drain board. Although their initial discharge capacity was relatively low compared to that of plastic drain board, the surface settlement from installation of the natural fiber drains, which is one of the most important factors to control the construction progress, was identical to that of plastic drain board. Therefore, it was concluded that the natural fiber drain boards satisfy the required minimum discharge capacity as a vertical drain and have great potential as a substitute for conventional plastic drain board. Secondly, long term changes in tensile strength of natural fiber drains embedded in sea water and clayey soil were examined. The tensile strength of fiber drain board in clayey soils decreased with time. These results indicated active decomposition of natural fibers embedded in sea water and clayey soils.