A simplified nonlinear approach for single pile settlement analysis

TLDR

A simple analytical approach for nonlinear analysis of the load–displacement response of a single pile is presented. The authors develop a computer program that employs two models—a softening nonlinear skin‑friction degradation model and a bilinear pile‑end load–displacement model—to analyze single‑pile settlement and compare results with other methods and field data. Comparisons show the proposed method agrees well with field observations and other analytical approaches.

Abstract

A simple analytical approach for nonlinear analysis of the load–displacement response of a single pile is presented. Two models are adopted in the proposed approach. One model uses a softening nonlinear relationship to simulate the degradation behavior between the unit skin friction and the pile–soil relative displacement developed in the pile–soil interface, and the other model adopts a bilinear load–displacement relationship to capture the pile-end response. Based on the two proposed models, a highly effective computer program has been developed for nonlinear analysis of the load–settlement behavior of a single pile. Comparisons are made between the present method, other analytical methods, and a well-documented field experimental pile loading case. The results of the comparisons indicate that the proposed method is generally in good agreement with field-observed behavior and the calculated results derived from other approaches. A parametric study is conducted to assess the influence of the parameters related to the proposed model on the load–displacement response of a single pile.