MODELING OF VERTICAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN LARGE SCALE GEOTECHNICAL STRUCTURES

This paper presents a homogenized modeling approach for simulating vertical drainage systems in largescale geotechnical structures. Drainage zones replace individual prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs) with embedded seepage surface elements that simulate volumetric pore pressure dissipation. The method is based on homogenization theory and uses a calibrated drainage parameter to capture the hydraulic effect of dense PVD networks. Implemented in ZSOIL v.2018, the approach allows for efficient large-scale simulations while preserving key consolidation behaviors. Results confirm its effectiveness in replicating detailed models with significantly reduced computational demand.