Abstract: Based on mechanism of soft foundation settlement, a method with Weibull model to predict the settlement is presented. Parameters of this method have explicit physical meanings. Because of considering loading velocity and construction art, the presented method overcomes deficiency of traditional methods that the ratio of settlement at inflection point to ultimate settlement is relative constant. While making using of other prediction methods, deciding inflection point of observed settlement samples is a necessity to scientifically choose settlement prediction model and relevant observed data. The Weibull model can make good use of observed settlement sample; and exponential model is one of its degradation types; so it is available to both linear and transient loading conditions. Finally, good agreements are obtained between calculating results and field measuring data.

Key words: settlement of soft foundation, Weibull model, growth curve, exponential model, inflection point