ORCID

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0956-0365

Keywords

Dynamic Ground Response, Vibratory Roller, Road Compaction, Ground Vibrations, Ground Deformations, Granular Soils.

Abstract

Vibratory roller compaction is a common technique for densifying granular materials in road construction, utilizing a combination of static and dynamic loads for greater efficiency. However, the vibrations generated during compaction activities can cause structural damage and human discomfort. This thesis investigates the dynamic ground response of sandy soils under vibratory roller compaction, aiming to predict the induced ground vibrations and deformations. Field tests were performed at different road construction sites in Central Florida by using geophones and settlement transducers to provide empirical support for the analysis. Finite element and finite difference models, implementing Hypoplasticity Sand and PM4Sand as constitutive models, respectively, are compared and validated with field measurements to determine the most suitable framework for simulating this phenomenon. A parametric study is conducted to evaluate the influence of key variables involved in this problem such as the dynamic properties of the roller (i.e., centrifugal force and vibration frequency) and the relative density of the soil. Based on the results, envelopes and prediction equations are developed to estimate ground vibrations and deformations in terms of Peak Particle Velocities (PPVs) and Peak Particle Displacements (PPDs), respectively, under different compaction conditions. These findings contribute to refining standard specifications, mitigating adverse effects while maintaining construction efficiency. Additionally, the study demonstrates that the ground response is highly dependent on the centrifugal force of the roller due to its direct relationship with the energy transmitted to the soil.

Completion Date

2025

Semester

Spring

Committee Chair

Arboleda Monsalve, Luis

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Department

Department of Civil, Environmental and Construction Engineering

Identifier

DP0029268

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Download

Share

COinS