Numerically Based Parametric Analysis of Mat Foundations

Abstract

This study uses the finite element method to investigate the behavior of symmetrical mats subjected to concentrated loads. The analysis considers different mat geometries, soil moduli of subgrade reaction, and concrete moduli of elasticity. The effect of these parameters on the maximum soil bearing pressure, bending moment, and shear within the mat is determined. For the considered mats, the maximum soil bearing pressure is observed below the corner columns, while the minimum soil pressure occurs in the middle of the central panel. The maximum positive bending moment is found below the interior column closest to the edge, whereas the maximum negative moment was located along a column strip midway between the edge and first interior columns. The location of the maximum shear occurs at the face of the edge column nearest to the corner of the mat. The most important parameters that affect the structural response of a mat are the thickness of the mat and spacing between columns, and to a lesser extent the soil modulus of subgrade reaction, concrete modulus of elasticity, and panel aspect ratio.