T Chart to evaluate consolidation test results

Abstract

Using Terzaghi's degree of consolidation, U, and the time factor, T, relationship, if M_U1 and M_U2 (M_U1 ≠ M_U2) are slopes of the U-√T curve at any two time factors T_U1 and T_U2, then it can be shown that a unique relationship exists between T_U2/T_U1, M_U1/M_U2, and T_U1 (or T_U2), and knowing any two of these, the third can be uniquely determined. A chart, called the T chart, has been plotted using these three variables for quickly determining T and U at any experimental time, t, to determine the coefficient of consolidation, c_ν, corrected zero settlement, δ₀, and ultimate primary settlement, δ₁₀₀. The chart can be used even in those cases where settlement and time, at the instant of load increment, are not known.