CIVE70022

Seepage and Consolidation

Module Overview and Content

This module supports your development of understanding of the flow of water in soil strata under
both steady state conditions (seepage) and transient conditions (consolidation). The module is
organised so that after a comprehensive discussion of steady stage flow you will consider the
transient case of consolidation in low permeability soils. Starting from a review of fundamental
concepts such as head, the module evolves to consider the governing equations necessary to solve
realistic engineering problems. Interactive laboratory demonstrations will further develop your
understanding. Permeability of soil and the factors that influence it will be discussed. Graphical,
numerical and analytical approaches to solve boundary value problems are considered. You will
learn how to make and interpret flownets. By using finite differences you will learn how to
numerically solve both the steady state seepage equation in two dimensions and the consolidation
equation in one dimension.

At the beginning of the module optional mathematics tutorials will be provided to support students
whose undergraduate curriculum lacked a large mathematical element as well as students who are
returning to education following a period in industry.

The first half of the term will focus on steady state seepage. Understanding of the key concepts
associated with the flow of water in soil will be developed from an experiential approach using
hands-on laboratory sessions, as well as from a theoretical perspective where the key equations are
derived from a fundamental basis. We will also consider the measurement of permeability and how
we can consider anisotropy and inhomogeneity of permeability in analysis for engineering
design. We will derive the steady state seepage equation required to analyse engineering boundary
value problems and then develop the skills to solve this both graphically (using flow nets) and
numerically (using Excel and finite differences).

In the second half of the term we will consider the more complex, transient process of
consolidation. While we will adopt the Terzaghi one-dimensional model, you will develop an
understanding of the limitations of that model and an appreciation of Biot theory. You will develop
a deep understanding of how pore water pressures dissipate during consolidation by using graphical
solution methods, while also developing the skill to simulate consolidation numerically by
implementing a finite difference model in Excel. You will also learn how to predict the acceleration
of consolidation using vertical drains.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

Seepage
1. Explain how permeability is measured in the laboratory or in situ and calculate permeability from
well tests in steady and not steady state conditions

2. Derive and solve the equations to accurately predict steady state flow for homogenous or
anisotropic soil and for geotechnical systems with layered strata.

2. Determine pore water pressures, soil stresses and expected flows, starting from the site and
boundary conditions, correctly applying the appropriate graphical and mathematical models, and
explaining the key influencing factors.

4. Derive and apply well theory for steady state to design individual wells in (un)confined aquifers or
a dewatering plan for an excavation.

Consolidation

1. Outline the mechanics of consolidation, classical theories and geotechnical models in this subject,
critique the underlying assumptions and derive the governing equations.

2. Derive the one-dimensional equation for consolidation and solve it using both graphical and
numerical methods.

3. Consider the use of vertical drains to accelerate the consolidation process.

ECTS: 5 CATS: 10

FHEQ: Level 7

Delivery: Autumn Term

Assessment: Written Examination & Coursework

Recommended Reading
Core (C) and Supplementary (S)

(S) Craig's Soil Mechanics; Knappett and Craig

(S) Groundwater Control: Design and Practice; Preene, Roberts, Powrie and Dyer

(S) Groundwater Lowering in Construction: A Practical Guide to Dewatering; Cashman and Preene

(S) Seepage, Drainage and Flownets; Cedergreen

(S) Fundamentals of Soil Behaviour; Mitchell and Soga

(S) Soil Mechanics: Concepts and Applications; Powrie

Staff Details

Module Leader: Professor Catherine O'Sullivan

Link to the full programme syllabus1

1https://www.imperial.ac.uk/civil-engineering/prospective-students/postgraduate-taught-

admissions/geotechnics-cluster/syllabus/