Assessment of basal stability for braced excavation systems using the finite element method

Abstract Conventional methods of predicting the basal stability of braced excavations are unable to take into consideration the stiffness of the retaining wall and the depth of penetration of the wall below the bottom of the excavation. A simple and improved procedure for predicting the stability of strutted excavations using the finite element method is presented. Detailed studies were carried out to assess the effects of the wall properties and soil geometry on the stability of the excavation.