3D failure envelope of rigid inclusion reinforced foundations

The paper focuses on the identification of the 3D failure envelope of a shallow foundation on soft soil reinforced by rigid inclusions. A nonlinear 3D finite element model is first validated against literature results and novel centrifuge experimental data. The failure envelope, defined in the vertical force (V), bending moment (M) and horizontal force (H) space, is then constructed using numerical swipe tests. Analytical formulas are introduced to describe the 3D failure envelope shape and inclination, considering the influence of the coverage area, the thickness, and the friction angle of the load transfer platform. Finally, the efficiency of a rigid inclusion foundation is highlighted by comparing its failure envelope to that of the same foundation without rigid inclusions. The proposed analytical failure envelope can be used by engineers to quantify the bearing capacity of rigid inclusion foundations and by researchers to develop novel macroelements submitted to complex coupled loads.