A large 3D physical model: a tool to investigate the consequences of ground movements on the surface structures

Abstract

Soil subsidence of various extend and amplitude can result from the failure of underground cavities, whether natural (for example caused by the dissolution of rocks by underground water flow) or man-made (such as mines). The impact of the ground movements on existing structures (houses, buildings, bridges, etc…) is generally dramatic. A large small-scale physical model is developed in order to improve our understanding of the behaviour of the building subjected to ground subsidence or the collapse of cavities. We focus on the soil-structure interaction and on the mitigation techniques allowing reducing the vulnerability of the buildings (structures).