A triaxial system for vibro-replacement liquefaction mitigation studies

Vibro-replacement is a cost-effective method of stabilising liquefiable soils. The exact mechanisms by which vibro-columns can mitigate liquefaction are complex and difficult to verify in the field. A novel low-cost, seismic frequency triaxial testing system is presented, which has the capability to apply a drained cyclic load to composite columnar samples. Potentially, the facility can provide a comprehensive examination of the parameters involved in liquefaction mitigation by columnar inclusions. The testing facility is used here to investigate the use of crushed glass as a columnar backfill material.