Abstract
Using a set of cone penetration test (CPT) records,the current paper develops a general framework based on regression analyses to model the load-settlement (q-s) behavior of shallow foundations resting on a variety of soils ranging from silty clays to sands.A three-parameter hyperbolic function is employed to rigorously examine the obtainedq-s curves, and to determine the model parameters.Also, the results of someCPT soundings, including the corrected cone tip resistance (qt) and the skin friction (Rf),are adopted to predict the results of plate load tests(PLT). The findingscorroborate the high accuracy of the proposed model, thereasonable performance of the hyperbolic function and the use of the Volterra series to predict the q-s curves.Moreover, the obtained curves from the newly developed model arecompared to those from other methods in the literature which cross-confirms the efficacyof the current model. Asensitivity analysis isalso conductedand the exclusive effects of all the contributing parameters are assessed among which Rfis shown to be the most influential. Ultimately, simple solutionsare adoptedto determine variouskey geotechnical parameters, like the ultimate bearing capacity (qult), the allowable bearing capacity (qa) andthe modulus of subgrade reaction (ks).
Study of the bearing capacity and settlement behavior of skirted foundations resting on cohesive soils