Foundation Analysis

We provide geotechnical analysis of foundations based on numerically simulating a full-scale load test of the foundation design using FBCM. The following plots show the results for a rectangular footing on sloping ground. The plots show the effects of setback on the bearing pressure versus settlement relationship.

Bearing pressure versus settlement, from numerically simulated full-scale load test of a rectangular footing atop a slope (with soil tensile strength of 10 kPa); showing results for foundation setback of 18, 14, 10, 6, and 4 m. More information at https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13123836

The foundation bearing capacity based on the simulated full-scale load test can be evaluated using the conventional approach by applying a safety factor to the ultimate bearing pressure. Alternatively, we propose a damage-based bearing capacity determined as the greatest bearing pressure too small to cause mechanical damage of the subsurface materials. For foundations on sloping ground, the following plots indicate the bearing capacity using either approach varies significantly with the foundation setback.

Ultimate bearing pressure and damage-based bearing capacity, from numerically simulated full-scale load test of a rectangular footing atop a slope; showing the effects of foundation setback and soil tensile strength. More information at https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13123836

A key aspect of behavior for foundations on sloping ground is that potential mechanical damage of the subsurface materials is tension-dominated for foundations at small setback, such as the following examples. Conventional foundation analysis based on using bearing-capacity factors would not be appropriate for such foundations.

Two perpendicular sections through a concrete pad foundation; showing the spatial distribution of mechanical damage of subsurface materials at the state of peak bearing pressure, for a foundation atop a 45-degree slope with setback of 4 m from the slope crest. A foundation at this setback distance would show tension-dominant failure mechanisms. More information at https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13123836

A key aspect of behavior for foundations on sloping ground is that potential mechanical damage of the subsurface materials is shear-dominated for foundations at large setback, such as the following examples. Conventional foundation analysis based on using bearing-capacity factors could be appropriate for such foundations.