Dynamic analysis of foundations on saturated clay using an energy absorbing layer

Abstract EN

In this study, a method to model the semi-infinite extension (unbounded domain) of the saturated soil is developed.

In this method, the unbounded domain is replaced by an absorbing layer of finite thickness with properties that appreciably reduce the wave reflection into bounded domain.

In this layer, the soil is represented by the same properties as in the soil close to the foundation (bounded domain) and a model of frequency-dependent damping is implemented.

A three-dimensional dynamic analysis of rectangular footing on a saturated soil is carried out.

The foundation is subjected to four cycles of harmonic force.

The coupled dynamic equations with u-p formulation based on the dynamic consolidation theory are used to simulate the soil skeleton and pore fluid responses.

The solid particles of the soil are represented by linear elastic behavior.

It was found that a decay in wave can be noticed when the unbounded domain of the saturated soil is represented by the energy absorbing layer.

In addition, the maximum displacement of the foundation will be decreased due to using the energy absorbing layer in comparison with the elementary boundaries.

The excess pore water pressure that developed during the dynamic loading will be dissipated with time in a fast rate due to using the energy absorbing layer.