Applicability of Conventional p-y Relations to the Analysis of Piles in Laterally Spreading Soil
This paper presents a kinematic analysis of a single pile embedded in a laterally spreading layered soil profile and discusses the relevancy of conventional analysis models to this load case. The research encompasses the creation of three-dimensional (3D) finite-element (FE) models using the OpenSees FE analysis platform. These models consider a single pile embedded in a layered soil continuum. Three reinforced concrete pile designs are considered. The piles are modeled using beam-column elements and fiber-section models. The soil continuum is modeled using brick elements and a Drucker-Prager constitutive model. The soil-pile interface is modeled using beam-solid contact elements. The FE models are used to evaluate the response of the soil-pile system to lateral spreading and two alternative lateral load cases. Through the computation of force density-displacement (p-y) curves representative of the soil response, the FE analysis (FEA) results are used to evaluate the adequacy of conventional p-y curve relationships in modeling lateral spreading. It is determined that traditional p-y curves are unsuitable for use in analyses where large pile deformations occur at depth. The authors note the extensive use of piles to support bridges and wharfs. When these piles are within seismically active regions, soils there can show characteristics where “a relatively loose saturated sand layer is located between two layers of more dense or unsaturated sand.“ This can potentially lead to lateral spreading during or just after a seismic event.
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Availability:
- Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/35194342
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Supplemental Notes:
- Copyright © 2011 American Society of Civil Engineers
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Authors:
- McGann, Christopher R.
- Arduino, Pedro
- Mackenzie-Helnwein, Peter
- Publication Date: 2011-6-1
Language
- English
Media Info
- Media Type: Print
- Features: Figures; Illustrations; References; Tables;
- Pagination: pp 557-567
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Serial:
- Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
- Volume: 137
- Issue Number: 6
- Publisher: American Society of Civil Engineers
- ISSN: 1090-0241
- Serial URL: http://ojps.aip.org/gto
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Bridge foundations; Dislocation (Geology); Earthquake resistant design; Finite element method; Layered soils; Mathematical methods; Mathematical models; Numerical analysis; Sand; Seismicity; Soil structure interaction; Support piles; Wharf components
- Uncontrolled Terms: Lateral loads; Lateral spreading; P-Y curves; Soil-pile interaction
- Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Geotechnology; Highways; Marine Transportation; Terminals and Facilities; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls; I42: Soil Mechanics;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01348822
- Record Type: Publication
- Files: TRIS, ASCE
- Created Date: Aug 8 2011 2:45PM