Biot consolidation theory

Summary

Biot consolidation theory is the three-dimensional theory of the slow settlement of a saturated porous solid under load, as the pore fluid drains away. It is the quasi-static form of linear poroelasticity. The displacement solves equations of elastic equilibrium with a pore pressure term, and the pore pressure solves a diffusion equation coupled to the volume change. Maurice Biot published it in 1941 as a three-dimensional extension of Terzaghi's one-dimensional theory of consolidation. It is the basis of settlement predictions for foundations, embankments and reservoirs.