DMT-predicted vs observed settlements: Treporti test embankment

This paper presents a compilation of documented case histories to include illustrating comparisons of DMT-predicted vs observed settlements, a review of the available experience on the use of DMT for settlement calculations and an appraisal of the evaluation of accuracy of the in settlement predictions based on DMT. In particular the paper illustrates the Treporti test site (Venice Lagoon, Italy) research, where a full-scale instrumented test embankment (40 m diameter, 6.7 m height, applied load 104 kPa) has been analyzed. The available data indicate that, in general, the constrained modulus obtained by DMT (MDMT) can be considered a reasonable "operative modulus" (relevant to foundations in "working conditions") for settlement predictions based on the traditional linear elastic approach. Attention has also been given to the determination of the strain range appropriate to MDMT, in view of the possible use of MDMT for settlement predictions based on non linear methods by taking into account the decay of soil stiffness with strain level.