Abstract
In the case where soft bottom mud with high water content over the liquid limit is fluidized by the pressure induced by waves, cracks are generated in the surface of the mud. The cracks develop under the action of tensile stress and shear stress caused by the rotation of principal stress in the periodic motion of waves. It is found that the dredged mud, which contains the smectite as clay mineral, fails developing definite deep cracks so that ductile mass of clay can be retained. The effect of the cracks on the acceleration of consolidation of the mud is reproduced and evaluated by a numerical analysis and experiment of self-weight consolidation with the placement of vertical drains. The mechanism of the acceleration of consolidation of the mud by wave action is elucidated through experimental and numerical studies.
