3D Soil-Structure-Pile Interaction Analysis for Heterogeneous Soil Medium

Abstract

Soil-Pile-Structure Interaction (SSI) analysis plays a crucial role in the design of structures aimed at withstanding various external loads, including seismic events. SSI is a complex process that manifests when the response of the soil, pile, and structure influence each other reciprocally under seismic activities or other dynamic loads. This interaction can precipitate significant changes in the dynamic characteristics of the system, consequently affecting the responses of the structure and soil. The initial and most critical step for a successful analysis is the accurate modeling of the soil profile, pile elements, and interaction springs to represent their real behaviors. Even in a project area with homogeneous structure, the modeling of all static and dynamic characteristics of the soil profile poses substantial challenges. These challenges intensify when considering a heterogeneous soil profile. In the context of this study, a comprehensive soil-structure-pile interaction analysis has been conducted on a project site possessing a heterogeneous structure. At the core of the research, a meticulous 3D modeling of the complex geological constitution of the site and the associated pile elements of varying dimensions and lengths has been carried out. The study’s approach towards 3D modeling not only elucidates the intricate relationship between the soil, structure, and piles, but also enhances the understanding of their dynamic behavior under various load conditions. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.