Centrifuge model study on consolidation characteristics of sand-based fill soil subjected to pulse-induced water bag + vacuum preloading

For a sandy fill foundation reinforcement project in Dongguan City, a combined water bag + vacuum preloading method was employed. Centrifugal model tests investigated the behavior of sandy fill foundations under pulsed loading during consolidation, including pore water pressure, earth pressure, settlement, and changes in moisture content and shear strength before and after consolidation. Results were compared with those from water bag + vacuum preloading consolidation tests without pulsed loading. Results indicate that increasing the number of drainage plates significantly enhances settlement reduction and drainage volume while markedly improving soil mechanical properties. Pulsed air pressure effectively fractures silt-clogged soil around drainage plates, thereby consolidating the reinforced soil mass.