Modelagem Numérica da Construção de Aterro Instrumentado na Baixada Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro.

Abstract

The complex prediction of the behavior of embankments on soft soils is a challenge for geotechnical engineers, even for the most experienced. The limitations of analytical theories, besides the uncertainties of parameters selection lead many times to incoherent prediction when compared to field observation. The present research aims at reproducing the sequence of construction of a large instrumented embankment in Baixada Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, using PLAXIS program. The embankment was built for the implantation of a Polymeric industry. The geotechnical parameters were defined by oedometric tests, which were previously analyzed according to the quality of sampling. These parameters were compared to local data, which have been obtained through more than 30 years of investigations in the soft clay of Baixada Fluminense. In spite of the distances between investigation sites, no significant differences have been observed. The numeric analyses were accomplished considering different hypothesis of permeability coefficient, in a tentative of appropriately reproducing the plate readings and piezometers recordings. The permeability has a great influence in the numerical modeling response and the alternative of varying permeability with depth has provided the best results.