Failure Envelopes for Circular Foundations on Two-Layered Clay under Combined Loading

Abstract

This study numerically investigates the undrained bearing capacity of circular foundations founded on a two-layered clay under combined loading of vertical, horizontal, and moment loads using three-dimensional finite-element analysis. Each clay layer has different thicknesses and shear strengths, and two types of foundation–subsoil interface are considered: an interface with (a) zero tensile capacity or (b) nonzero tensile capacity. Analysis results are presented in the form of normalized failure envelopes for a wide range of layer thicknesses and shear strength ratios. The presented normalized failure envelopes under combined loads with or without the interface tension can be considered as graphical solutions for circular foundations on a two-layered clay in offshore marine environments. Failure mechanisms under various combined loads provide further insights into foundation-layered soil interactions.