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The paper presents the Finite Element formulation of the equations proposed by Tsiampousi et al. (2016) for coupled consolidation in unsaturated soils. Their coupling is discussed in relation to a conceptual model which divides soil behaviour into zones ranging from fully saturated to dry states. The numerical simulation of a laboratory experiment involving drainage of water from a vertical column of sand is used to validate the equations. Finally, the example of rainfall infiltration into a cut slope highlights how aspects of the conceptual model are reflected in the numerical analysis of boundary value problems involving unsaturated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The equations governing coupled consolidation in unsaturated soils are known to contain additional parameters when compared to the equations for saturated soils. Nonetheless, the variation of these parameters with suction or degree of saturation is not generally agreed upon. The paper introduces a novel approach to deriving general equations for each of these parameters and their variation, and explains that, for consistency with the constitutive and soil-water retention curve models adopted, these general equations need to be transformed into case-specific expressions. Finally, a conceptual model is presented highlighting how the behaviour of unsaturated soil reflects aspects of its water content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]