Pile Groups under Negative Skin Friction

Abstract

This paper describes a simplified hybrid load‐transfer approach for analyzing the response of pile groups under negative skin friction. The response of single piles is evaluated by a discrete‐element approach. The interaction between piles in a group bearing on a Stifter stratum is considered using a modified form of Mindlin's analytical point‐load solution. The nonlinear pile behavior is represented by a simple hyperbolic pile‐soil model. The consolidation settlement is estimated by using Terzaghi's one‐dimensional consolidation theory. The linear elastic solutions computed by the present approach are in good agreement with those by the more rigorous continuum approaches. The behavior of two field pile tests and a test on a model nine‐pile group subjected to negative skin friction predicted by the present nonlinear approach agrees favorably with the measured results.