Three-dimensional analysis of bearing behavior of piled raft on soft clay

Abstract The piled raft has proved to be an economical foundation type compared to conventional pile foundations. However, there is a reluctance to consider the use of piled rafts on soft clay because of concerns about excessive settlement and insufficient bearing capacity. Despite these reasons, applications of piled rafts on soft clay have been increased recently. Current analysis methods for piled rafts on soft clay, however, are insufficient, especially for calculating the overall bearing capacity of the piled raft. This study describes the three-dimensional behavior of a piled raft on soft clay based on a numerical study using a 3D finite element method. The analysis includes a pile–soil slip interface model. A series of numerical analyses was performed for various pile lengths and pile configurations for a square raft subjected to vertical loading. Relatively stiff soil properties and different loading types were also used for estimating the bearing behavior of the piled raft. Based on the results, the effect of pile–soil slip on the bearing behavior of a piled raft was investigated. Furthermore, the proportion of load sharing of the raft and piles at the ultimate state and the relationship between the settlement and overall factor of safety was evaluated. The results show that the use of a limited number of piles, strategically located, might improve both bearing capacity and the settlement performance of the raft.