Centrifugal model tests on synchronous deformation of inclinometer pipes in soft soil layers

In geotechnical engineering, the inclinometer pipes are commonly used to monitor shear deformations in soft soil foundations. However, in practical applications, a phenomenon of asynchronous deformation between the inclinometer pipe and the surrounding soft soil often occurs, which poses challenges for accurately assessing the stability and deformation characteristics of foundations. Based on the centrifugal model tests, a feasible approach is developed for measuring the internal displacements in soft soils, and the characteristics and causes of the displacement discrepancies between the inclinometer pipe and the soil are identified. The results indicate that the lateral pressure and consolidation degree of the soft soil layers are the fundamental causes of the displacement differences. The displacement of the inclinometer pipe and the soil body develops asynchronously. While their maximum displacements are located at similar depths, and the displacement of the inclinometer pipe is significantly smaller than that of the soil body, with a notable difference. At the same depth, the ratio of the soil displacement to that of the inclinometer tube is positively correlated with the applied load, highlighting the importance of making necessary displacement corrections.