Finite Element Analysis of Earth-retaining Structures Problems in Nonlinear Partially Saturated Soil

Abstract

This paper presents the finite element method to analyze the problems of earth-retaining structures in nonlinear partially saturated soil. The finite element formulation of the incremental Biot’s theory (1941) of consolidation is presented. This formulation is extended to represent the nonlinear time-dependent behavior of earth-retaining structures in partially saturated soil. Also, the concept of the thin layer element is incorporated to simulate the behavior at the interfaces between the soil and retaining structures. The finite element method is applied to analyze the construction of real braced excavation in soft clay. The results obtained are compared to the observed field results. Good agreement is obtained and the numerical method proved how can be used for analyzing related geotechnical problems involving consolidation and support systems in nonlinear partially saturated soil.

Keywords

• finite element method
• earth-retaining structures
• partially saturated soil