Quasi-Static Test and Lateral Load-Bearing Capacity of a New Grid Pile Foundation for Long-Span Bridges

Abstract

This study proposes a new form of underground diaphragm wall foundation with hexagonal sections, called the grid pile foundation (GPF), which is used for long-span bridges. To investigate the lateral bearing capacity characteristics of the integrated pile foundation, the quasi-static test as well as numerical simulations were conducted. Firstly, the quasi-static test was conducted to obtain the lateral load–displacement curve, the soil pressure distribution, and the deformation and stress distribution of the pile foundation and the surrounding soil. Then, the finite element model of the proposed GPF foundation was built, which was verified and calibrated based on the test data. Finally, the parametric analysis was performed to investigate the effects of soil friction angle, pile foundation Young’s modulus, and pile length on the lateral bearing capacity characteristics of the proposed GPF. It is concluded that the GPF would transition from the stiffness stage to the plastic strain stage under lateral load, and deformation occurred simultaneously. The stress in the soil around the pile foundation is high in the upper portion and low in the lower portion, and the active and passive failure zones of the soil are formed under the action of the GPF. Both experimental and numerical simulations indicate that the GPF has a good lateral load capacity, and the lateral load capacity is most affected by the length of the piles. The GPF is expected to provide a new solution to the construction of large-span bridges with diaphragm wall foundations.