A simplified nonlinear approach for single pile settlement analysis

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.