Settlement analysis of shallow foundations on sand

Abstract

The evaluation of ground movements is one of the most important issues in geotechnical engineering applications. In this context, the paper is aimed at prediction of the load–settlement performance of shallow foundations by taking soil non-linearity into account. The approach illustrated is based on the operational stiffness concept, characterising field behaviour with reference to relative foundation settlements, indicating pseudo-strain levels. A strain correction factor and a modulus correction factor, relating laboratory and field stiffness degradation curves, are introduced. Values of these factors are supplied on the basis of well-documented tests performed on Ticino sand, and can be adopted in elastic relationships for the prediction of load–settlement curves. The procedure, developed in order to supply the designer with a practical tool, is described, and some applications are presented.