The use of the constant rate of strain consolidation tests (CRS-test) is proposed in order to evaluate the consolidation characteristics of various types of soils underlain by or used for a landfill. The the oretical background of the CRS-tests based on the small strain theory is critically reviewed. In addition, thetheory of the CRS consolidation based on the large strain theory is developed. The CRS-test methods supported by these theories can be applied to the various practical problems regarding consolidation.
　As a result, it will be shown that the CRS-tests are effectively used as a rapid consolidation test method for cohesive soils, used for determining the consolidation constants of very soft soils, and used for determining the consolidation constants of such permeable soils as silty soils or sandy soils. At the same time, this paper describes the range of strain rate suitable for the rapid consolidation test, correlation between consolidation constants and plasticity index, Ip, proposal of the settlement analaysis method for very soft soils, and evaluation of the permeability during the liquefaction process and proposal of the prediction method of liquefaction.
　Finally, it will be concluded that the CRS-tests are applicable to various types of soils and useful to cope with the carious practical problems regarding oonsolidation.