INVESTIGATION OF THE SEAFLOOR PRE CONSOLIDATING FOUNDATION CONCEPT 



Technical Note N-1276 



YF38.535.002.01.005 



by 



P. J. Valent, D. A. Raecke, and H. G. Herrmann 



ABSTRACT 



The report describes the performance of submerged model precon- 

 solidating footings. The preconsolidation concept applied to seafloor 

 footings can reduce the subsequent structure settlement by 80 to 95 

 percent, double the vertical load capacity, and it may double the 

 lateral load capacity. Projected energy requirements of the pump 

 system are compatible with the existing state-of-the-art. The concept 

 will be useful for supporting sensitive and/or heavy structures on 

 soft seafloor sediments. 



Approved for public release; distribution unlimited. 



