Influence of Underlying Weak Soil on Passive Earth Pressure in Cohesionless Deposits
Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 137, Issue 3
Abstract
Finite-element simulations demonstrate the influence of underlying weak soil on mobilization of passive pressures in cohesionless deposits. Traditional passive earth pressure theories with typical angles of interface friction may overestimate passive forces in such cases. Simple analytical models that incorporate the underlying weak soil using traditional passive earth pressure concepts are shown to agree reasonably with the finite-element simulations. The studies presented herein are relevant for cases in which cohesionless soil deposits overlie soft clay, liquefiable sand, or other weak layers.
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Acknowledgments
This study was part of a broader effort to develop fragility functions for bridges in liquefied and laterally spreading ground. Funding was provided by the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center through contract No. SA5258, and by the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center Lifelines Program through contract No. SA5407:1, under the guidance of Tom Shantz. The contents of this paper do not necessarily represent a policy of the agency or endorsement by the state or federal government.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 137 • Issue 3 • March 2011
Pages: 273 - 278
Copyright
© 2011 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: May 7, 2009
Accepted: Aug 10, 2010
Published online: Aug 11, 2010
Published in print: Mar 1, 2011
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