Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Soil Structure Interaction in Multi -Storey Building
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Soil – Structure Interaction, Finite Element Modelling, Material Non-Linearity, Hyperbolic Model, Foundation System
Abstract
The effects of Soil-Structure Interaction (SSI) have become a crucial consideration in structural engineering, particularly with the emergence of large-scale constructions on soft soils, including buildings, bridges, tunnels, and underground structures. Therefore, recent design codes incorporate requirements to account for SSI to enable realistic structural modelling. This study sought to simulate the intricate interactions among the various elements of the structure. The need for a simple and accurate model that realistically represents the actual behaviour of the structure and foundation system remains a major concern. This research presents the development of a two-dimensional finite element model of a reinforced concrete frame and pile foundation system, explicitly integrating nonlinear soil response. The soil nonlinearity was modeled using the Duncan and Chang method, which is commonly applied in the hyperbolic model introduced by Kondner and Zelasko. The accuracy of this model was verified through its application in analyzing a multi-story building. The analysis is performed on a numerical model of an eight-story reinforced concrete frame subjected to combined loading of dead, live, and wind loads for two cases: linear elastic analysis and nonlinear elastic analysis. The results show the influence of soil behaviour on the overall response of the structure. A comparison of linear and nonlinear analysis results is carried out to study the effect of soil nonlinearity on the structural response.
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References
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