Bearing Capacity of Two-dimensional Reinforced Composite Foundation

Abstract

The bearing performance of both vertically and horizontally reinforced composite foundation formed by horizontal reinforcement settled on top of granular piles, which can restrict the failure of granular piles, was studied. With the consideration of restriction of horizontal reinforcement and the shear force between the pile and the inter-pile soil, the bearing capacity formula of composite foundation reinforced with single-layer horizontal reinforcement and vertical piles was derived according to limit equilibrium condition. It can well consider the effect of horizontal reinforcement, vertical piles and soil’s gravity on composite foundation bearing capacity. A case study was given and the influence of different parameters on bearing capacity of composite foundation was discussed. The results show that the bearing capacity of such composite foundation increases with increase of internal friction angle, cohesion of soils and the friction angle between the pile and the inter-pile soil. Besides, the bearing capacity increases to a certain level with the existence of horizontal reinforcement on top of granular piles.