Comparison of experimentally determined shape factors with those recommended by Eurocode 7

Geoghegan, Eoghan (2014) Comparison of experimentally determined shape factors with those recommended by Eurocode 7. Bachelors thesis, Dundalk Institute of Technology.

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Abstract

Foundation design is of utmost importance within the structural and geotechnical engineering sector. They must be designed properly with a good margin of safety. There has been a considerable amount of research conducted and work completed in this area in the decades following Karl Terzaghi’s initial experiments in the 1930’s and 40’s to determine the bearing capacity of soil. As a result much experimental data has since been published in relation to the shape factors for shallow foundations. Bearing capacity theory includes formulae which allow the bearing capacity formula to recognise the foundation shape: different shapes are more efficient at resisting loads and these formulae are known as shape factors. The shape factors that are recommended for use by Eurocode 7 were derived in the 1970’s and the tests that were carried out on loose, fine sand. This kind of sand obviously isn’t representative of the majority of actual soil conditions hence the use of these factors may underestimate the actual bearing capacity of the ground. This dissertation has investigated this hypothesis and through both research into the theory of bearing capacity and results from model tests that have been carried out, comparisons have been made on the whether the shape factors prescribed by Eurocode 7 are adequate or if they result in an underestimated, conservative value for bearing capacity. After both the research and the model testing results were documented, analysis and comparison between the theoretical and experimental values found that the Eurocode 7 factors are in fact quite conservative and would lead to a more expensive foundation solution than is required. Recommendations have been made in relation to how to improve the current shape factors. This is a shortcoming that needs to be addressed and this dissertation aims to present a basis on which to do so.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelors)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Eurocode 7; Sand; Load capacity; Soils; Bearing capacity formula.
Subjects:	Engineering
Research Centres:	UNSPECIFIED
Depositing User:	Sean McGreal
Date Deposited:	29 Jul 2015 14:41
Last Modified:	29 Jul 2015 14:41
URI:	https://eprints.dkit.ie/id/eprint/433

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