Investigation of the bearing capacity of shallow footings located near slopes

Abstract

[Abstract]: The main objective of this research project was to investigate the effect of several non-dimensional parameters on the bearing capacity of shallow footings located near slopes. The geotechnical software package FLAC was used to study the effect of D/B,H/B, L/B, Soil-Structure interactions, and Small and Large Strain analysis modes. Within each of these studies further parameters relevant to each topic were also examined. Parametric studies were carried out extensively, with the view to create practical design charts for consulting engineers. The advantage of the method presented within this dissertation is that is it simple, yet takes into account the multi-dimensional complexities of the footing on slope problem. A positive outcome requires these topics to be studied comprehensively in order to add further weight to the argument to use this method over the traditional methods which have been developed over the past 60 years. This dissertation proves that FLAC is a valid tool for modelling the footing on slope problem, particularly when performing parametric studies. However, care should be taken when using FLAC as with any numerical software package, to ensure the results are correct. The results have been analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively, and have highlighted the failings of previous researchers to take into account the multi-dimensional complexity of this problem.