Finite Element Analysis of Railway-Induced Ground Vibrations and Mitigation Using Composite Soil Barriers

Title: Finite Element Analysis of Railway-Induced Ground Vibrations and Mitigation Using Composite Soil Barriers

Authors: Dr. Shwetambara Verma and Asif Md. Injamam Ilyasi

Publisher: Cogniverse Press, Jorhat, Assam, India

First Edition: May 2026

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.20351028

ISBN: 978-81-686963-0-3 (Print Edition)

e-ISBN: 978-81-686963-1-0 (Digital Edition)

This book presents a comprehensive numerical investigation of railway-induced ground vibrations and their mitigation using sustainable composite soil barriers. As railway networks expand and train speeds increase, vibration-related challenges affecting structural safety, underground utilities, and human comfort have become increasingly significant.

The study employs advanced three-dimensional finite element modelling using PLAXIS 3D to simulate train–track–soil interaction under dynamic loading conditions. Both linear elastic and nonlinear soil behaviour models are incorporated to accurately represent ground response under cyclic train loading.

Special emphasis is placed on evaluating sustainable composite barrier materials, including rubber–soil, sawdust–soil, and fly ash–soil mixtures. Through extensive parametric analyses, the research examines the effects of material properties, barrier depth, and placement on vibration attenuation.

The findings demonstrate that rubber–soil composite barriers provide the highest vibration reduction due to their superior damping characteristics, while sawdust–soil and fly ash–soil composites also offer significant mitigation benefits. The study highlights the importance of nonlinear soil modelling in achieving accurate predictions and effective vibration control designs.

This work contributes valuable knowledge to geotechnical and railway engineering and serves as a practical reference for engineers, researchers, and planners involved in the development of vibration-sensitive railway infrastructure.

The authors express sincere gratitude to Prof. A. K. Buragohain, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of The Assam Royal Global University, for his encouragement, visionary leadership, and support throughout the completion of this work.

Special thanks are extended to Prof. Diganta Munshi, Dean, Registrar Administration and Director IQAC, for his continuous guidance and assistance.

Asif Md. Injamam Ilyasi acknowledges his guide, Prof. Shwetambara Verma, for her invaluable mentorship, motivation, and academic support, which played a pivotal role in shaping this research.

The authors also appreciate the contributions of faculty members, colleagues, staff, and students of The Assam Royal Global University for fostering a supportive academic environment. Gratitude is extended to all individuals who directly or indirectly contributed to the successful completion of this publication.

• Railway-induced ground vibrations and their impacts.
• Train–track–soil dynamic interaction.
• Finite element modelling using PLAXIS 3D.
• Linear and nonlinear soil behaviour analysis.
• Sustainable composite soil barriers for vibration mitigation.
• Rubber–soil, sawdust–soil, and fly ash–soil barrier systems.
• Parametric evaluation of barrier performance.
• Vibration attenuation and damping mechanisms.
• Comparison with ISO vibration standards.
• Design implications for railway infrastructure.