Abstract:
This work investigates the experimental and numerical analysis of shallow and semi-deep (skirted)
foundation models on loose sand. The study employs both singly and doubly skirted models,
utilizing varying skirt lengths of 0.25B, 0.5B, and 1B to comprehensively evaluate the performance
of these skirted foundations under different conditions. The research aims to assess the feasibility
of semi-deep foundations as an alternative to traditional deep foundations, with a focus on their
application in soils with a relative density of 30%. The experimental setup involves systematically
varying the skirt lengths and observing the resultant changes in bearing capacity. Concurrently,
numerical simulations are performed to corroborate the experimental findings and provide deeper
insights into the underlying mechanisms. Both sets of results consistently indicate that skirted
foundations significantly enhance bearing capacity, with the bearing capacity increasing
proportionally to the skirt length in both singly and doubly skirted foundations. Notably, doubly
skirted foundations exhibit a more substantial improvement in bearing capacity compared to their
singly skirted counterparts, suggesting a potential for greater efficiency and stability in practical
applications. This comprehensive study highlights the advantages of using skirted foundations in
geotechnical engineering, providing a robust alternative to deep foundations and paving the way
for more cost-effective and efficient foundation design solutions.
