Three-dimensional base stability of rectangular excavations in soft soils using FEM K;G~V \
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Abstract O,f?YJ9S
The three-dimensional base stability of rectangular excavations in soft soils was evaluated using the finite element method with *L^,|
reduced shear strength. Numerical results indicate that the base stability of excavations was significantly influenced by the following {%H'z$|{
factors: (1) the depth to width ratio, (2) the thickness of the soft soil layer between the excavation base and the hard stratum, (3) the =8.
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depth of walls inserted below the excavation base, (4) the stiffness of walls, and (5) the length to width ratio of the excavation. The kgP0x-Ap
three-dimensional effect can be neglected at the length to width ratio larger than six. Terzaghi’s equation for base stability can be 45c $nuZ
used to evaluate the three-dimensional base stability of rectangular excavations after modification. !*N@ZL& X
2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. qR8Lh( "i
Keywords: Finite-element analysis; Three-dimensional; Soft clay; Base stability
