Abstract: This paper reviews the main modeling techniques for stone columns, both ordinary stone
columns and geosynthetic-encased stone columns. The paper tries to encompass the more recent
advances and recommendations in the topic. Regarding the geometrical model, the main options
are the ?unit cell?, longitudinal gravel trenches in plane strain conditions, cylindrical rings of
gravel in axial symmetry conditions, equivalent homogeneous soil with improved properties and
three-dimensional models, either a full three-dimensional model or just a three-dimensional row or
slice of columns. Some guidelines for obtaining these simplified geometrical models are provided
and the particular case of groups of columns under footings is also analyzed. For the latter case,
there is a column critical length that is around twice the footing width for non-encased columns in a
homogeneous soft soil. In the literature, the column critical length is sometimes given as a function
of the column length, which leads to some disparities in its value. Here it is shown that the column
critical length mainly depends on the footing dimensions. Some other features related with column
modeling are also briefly presented, such as the influence of column installation. Finally, some
guidance and recommendations are provided on parameter selection for the study of stone columns.
