Uplift of shallow foundations with cement-stabilised backfill

Abstract

This paper describes the results of a series of centrifuge model tests undertaken to investigate the effects of modifying a loose granular backfill using cement on the uplift performance of shallow anchors. These model tests, which involved a range of cement contents, are supported using a series of laboratory element tests and finite-element analyses. The study indicates that significant increases in uplift stiffness and peak capacity can be achieved by the addition of relatively small quantities of cement. Such increases are, however, limited to relatively low uplift displacements because of the brittle nature of the improved backfill shear strength characteristics.