Finite layer method for 3D coupled flow-deformation response due to pumping

Based on the Biot’s theory, the coupled consolidation of multilayered soil due to pumping is studied. The finite layer numerical scheme for solving the above problem is presented by using the semi-analytical numerical analysis principle. Moreover, by means of the orthogonality of the trigonometric function series in shape functions, the weighted residual equations are decoupled into several independent ones associated with different series of modes. A computer program is developed for solving the finite layer equations, and the validity of the present method is performed through the comparison between the numerical results and other available solutions. The influences of Poisson’s ratio, the anisotropy of permeability and pumping method on the deformation and the subsidence of the soil are studied based on the finite layer solutions. The finite layer numerical results show that the above three factors have great influences on the subsidence of the soil due to pumping. The influences of the pumping method connot be ignored near the pumping wells. Finally, the applicability of the present method in analyzing pumping in multilayered soil is demonstrated.