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Article · Bulletin of Kazakh Leading Academy of Architecture and Construction · December 30, 2025

DEVELOPMENT OF AN EFFECTIVE METHOD FOR STRENGTHENING WEAK FOUNDATIONS OF RAILWAY EMBANKMENTS

Baitak Apshikur, A.S. Imankulova, Kunanbayev Almas, Murat Alimkulov, K. S. Lesov

Baitak Apshikur
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Abstract

This article presents an effective approach to mitigating vertical displacements of railway embankments constructed on weak soils, caused by precipitation, increased train loads, axial forces, and varying embankment heights ranging from 1 to 12 m. The stress–strain state of embankments founded on weak soils was analysed using numerical modelling based on the finite element method, supported by experimental and empirical data. The study examines the influence of static and vibrodynamic loads on the deformation behaviour of clay soils and railway embankments through laboratory investigations and numerical simulations, without considering filtration consolidation and time-dependent effects. Various strengthening measures were analysed, including stabilising berms, partial replacement of weak soils, and cement-based reinforcement techniques. Finite element models were developed to evaluate the stress–strain behaviour of embankments under different reinforcement scenarios. The results demonstrate that the application of integrated strengthening measures can reduce vertical settlements by 35–40%, decrease horizontal displacements by up to 25%, and significantly extend the service life of railway embankments without the need for major repairs. Based on the obtained results, recommendations are proposed for selecting optimal materials, reinforcement technologies, and injection methods suitable for different types of weak soils. The findings contribute to improving the reliability and operational safety of railway infrastructure constructed on weak ground conditions.

Geotechnical Engineering and Soil StabilizationGeotechnical Engineering and AnalysisGeotechnical Engineering and Soil Mechanicsrailway embankmentweak soilsvertical settlement

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