Numerical Modeling for Geotechnical Design

Abstract

Although the limit equilibrium methods and mixed empirical–numerical methods are widely used in routine design of offshore geotechnical engineering, the finite element (FE) approaches have become the routine “calculator” for greater challenges. The key questions of FE modeling are discussed, including (i) the soil models in terms of monotonic and cyclic loadings; (ii) drained, undrained, or partially drained conditions; (iii) the influence of inertia; and (iv) the selection between small strain and large deformation analyses. Popular commercial FE programs and several typical offshore applications are addressed as well.