Nonlinear elastic analysis of shallow footings subjected to eccentric inclined loads

Abstract

In this study, the behaviour of shallow foundations subjected to eccentric inclined loads is presented using nonlinear elastic finite element analysis. The material non-linearity of the soil has been taken into consideration by employing the hyperbolic stress-strain model. The formulation of an isoparametric interface/joint element which is used between footing base and soil media has been presented. Tests have been conducted to determine the characteristics of soil-footing interface. Forty cases of strip footing resting on sand and subjected to eccentric-inclined load which were studied by Agrawal (1986) through model tests, have been analysed. The predicted pressure-settlement, pressure-horizontal displacement and pressure-tilt characteristics have been compared with experimental results of Agrawal (1986) and a reasonable agreement between the two has been observed.

Keywords:

• shallow footings
• eccentric-inclined loads
• nonlinear response
• interface behaviour