2D Model Tests of Sheet Pile Reinforcement Method for Existing Pile Foundations

The sheet pile (SP) reinforcement method can be utilized to realize a sustainable society because it is more economical, environment friendly, and easier to construct in narrow areas than conventional methods of reinforcing pile foundations. Furthermore, the method can be used as a foundation reinforcement technique. In this study, static horizontal loading tests were conducted on a model ground using various separations between the piles and SP. Additionally, we studied the effects of increasing the overall resisting force of the foundation and the effect of decreasing the load supported by the existing piles. The results confirmed that when the distance between the existing piles and SP is small, the SP reinforcement effectively reduces the cross-sectional forces acting on the existing piles. By contrast, when the separation is large, the SP reinforcement effectively increases the bearing capacity of the entire foundation. Thus, the interaction between the pile and SP perimeter soil changed when the separation varied, and the reinforcement effect varied with the separation.