Evaluation of settlement of shallow foundations laid on unsaturated soils

Abstract

The study presents an experimental and numerical study on an unsaturated, non-plastic and poorly graded sand, originated from Fortaleza-CE, Brazil. The numerical analyses used the Finite Element Method (FEM), were performed using the UNSTRUCT software to simulate the curve stress versus strain, considering the effect of suction on soil stiffness. Characterization and determination of the retention curve were performed through filter paper tests, which were used to determine the stress versus strain curve in a double-oedometer test. Suction was considered constant along the entire test. From the numerical analyses done with UNSTRUCT software presented satisfactory results, especially in the presence of suction profiles, that show the variation of suction along of the depth. It can be concluded that higher suction values (and soil stiffness) generate lower settlements.

Numerical Analysis of Bridge Foundation in Dry and Saturated Soils with Effect of Halabjah Earthquake (Case Study)

“…In addition, Yousif et al, 2011 also studied the analysis for the designed bridge firstly manual by using equations, secondly by using 3D Plaxis program of finite elements in static condition [7]. Others were studied the behaviour of foundations in dynamic conditions such as [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16]. Diyala province is located within an active seismic zone and it is necessary to get an information about the expected dynamic response behavior of structures in this area.…”