ENGR8931 Geotechnical Engineering Research Report Sample

ENGR8931 Geotechnical Engineering Report

Assignment Details

Choose one topic form this list

1. Shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sand

2. Pile end-bearing capacity in sand considering soil compressibility

3. End-bearing capacity of piles in crushable soils

4. Axial capacity of driven piles in sand

5. Settlement of vertically loaded piles

General Criteria

• Adherence to 5,000 word limit

• Report writing style and clarity of expression

• Logical planning and sequence

• Correct referencing & acknowledgement

• Overall presentation, including correct grammar

• Appropriate formatting of the tables and charts, spelling and punctuation

Introduction

• Is background to the research clear?

• Is problem outlined?

• Is it researchable and achievable in the context of the time frame?

• Are research objectives clearly stated? Are they directly linked with research questions and with the delivered topic content?

Literature Review

• Is the literature related to the research project adequately identified and discussed?

• Are the selected references current and relevant to the research problem?

• Has the literature been critically assessed (similarity/dissimilarity to each other and relatedness to the research projects)

• Continuity of review/discussion (the flow of the arguments)

• Is there a discussion on implications of the findings to the proposed research?

• Are the key finding summarised?

Research methodology

• Is there a justification that the selected methodology is appropriate?

• Does the methodology connect well with the delivered topic content?

• Is there a discussion on alternative methodologies?

• Are the proposed research data collection methods described?

Analyses and results

• Are the appropriate analytical tools used?

• Has the data been analysed appropriately?

• Have the evaluations/comparison been carried out appropriately?

• Are the results clearly presented and explained?

• Are the tables, charts, images used appropriately?

Discussion/Conclusions/Recommendations

• Are the results discussed adequately?

• Has the discussion on results led to the given conclusions and recommendations

Solution

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

A crucial component of geotechnical engineering that directly affects the stability and load-bearing capacity of structures is the shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sand. To ensure the structural integrity and safety of foundations in sandy soil conditions, it is crucial to comprehend the frictional resistance between non-displacement piles and the surrounding sand. In order to design and build non-displacement piles in sand, this research intends to investigate the major elements affecting shaft friction and offer insightful information.

Figure 1:Analogy in between piles
(Source: Shao et al. 2023)

1.2 Problem Outline

The issue with this study is how little is known about how shaft friction behaviour in non-displacement piles in sandy soil works. The absence of thorough design standards and optimised pile configurations is one of the current knowledge gaps. By examining the variables affecting shaft friction, creating a numerical model to predict pile behaviour, and offering suggestions for improving pile topologies, this study tries to address these difficulties. The project attempts to improve non-displacement pile performance in sandy soil situations by addressing these problems for MBA assignment expert.

1.3 Research Feasibility

Feasibility is deemed possible to complete the investigation on shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sandy soil by the deadline. To gather information on load-displacement relationships and validate the numerical model, laboratory tests can be carried out. The pile-soil interaction can be modeled numerically using finite element analysis tools, and shaft friction behaviour can be examined. The ability to obtain the required tools and knowledge in geotechnical engineering will help the study be completed successfully. The study objectives can be completed within the allotted time frame with careful preparation and effective use of time and resources.

1.4 Research Objectives

● To look into the pile design, embedment depth, and soil characteristics that affect shaft friction in non-displacement piles in sandy soil.

● To create a numerical model using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) that accurately predicts shaft friction, load-displacement relationships, and the behaviour of non-displacement piles.

● To evaluate the pile shaft's shaft friction distribution and locate any probable slide zones or areas of increased resistance.

1.5 Research Questions

● What are the main variables, especially in connection to the pile geometry, embedment depth, and soil qualities, that affect shaft friction in non-displacement piles in sandy soil?

● How is it possible to create a numerical model using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) that accurately simulates the behavior of non-displacement piles and forecasts shaft friction and load-displacement relationships?

● How is shaft friction distributed along the pile shaft, and how does it change depending on various variables and parameters?

2. Literature Review

2.1 Research Project on The Shaft Friction

The relevant literature for the study on shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sand has been properly identified and discussed. A thorough grasp of the subject has been provided by examining numerous research from respectable journals, conference proceedings, and technical reports.
The recognised literature is made up of several different research publications that are specifically concerned with the behaviour of non-displacement piles in sandy soil conditions. These studies look into several aspects of shaft friction, such as the impact of soil characteristics, pile design, installation methods, and interface behaviour (Ali et al. 2020). A detailed comprehension of the variables controlling shaft friction and their interactions has been attained by examining these investigations.

The literature under discussion offers a wide range of research procedures and approaches. To investigate the behaviour of non-displacement piles in sandy soil, experimental research involving large-scale field tests, laboratory tests, and model-scale tests have been carried out. The mechanics governing shaft friction and the crucial factors affecting it are better understood thanks to these experiments.

Figure 2 : Shaft friction
(Source: Ali et al. 2020)

The behaviour of non-displacement piles has been simulated and examined in the literature using numerical modelling in addition to experimental experiments. These modelling methods aid in analysing the effects of various variables on shaft friction and provide a clearer understanding of the underlying processes. The literature evaluation will reflect the most recent understanding in the field because the references chosen are current and pertinent to the research issue. The studies taken into consideration cover a considerable amount of time, allowing for an investigation of both historical perspectives and contemporary achievements. The literature has undergone a thorough evaluation to spot overlaps and differences across various research. The literature review and discussion connect the various research and their conclusions in a logical stream of reasoning (Doan et al. 2019). The integration of the studied literature enables a thorough study of the research problem by giving a holistic understanding of the variables affecting shaft friction in non-displacement piles.

The discovered and discussed literature, taken as a whole, provides a solid framework for the study topic and lays the foundations for future research into the behaviour and construction of non-displacement piles in sand.

2.2 Research Problem

The literature review's chosen sources are up to date and extremely pertinent to the investigation's focus on shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sand. Recent papers that reflect the most recent research and technological developments in the field have been carefully chosen to be included.

The chosen sources' emphasis on the behaviour, functionality, and design of non-displacement piles in sandy soil conditions makes it clear how pertinent they are. These studies look especially at the soil characteristics, pile shape, installation methods, and contact behaviour that affect shaft friction (Pashayan et al. 2019). These sources are cited in the literature study to ensure that the material supplied is consistent with up-to-date industry standards and breakthroughs and to provide a thorough knowledge of the research subject.

The references were chosen from reliable sources such technical reports, conference proceedings, and peer-reviewed journals. These sources go through thorough vetting procedures to guarantee the accuracy and reliability of the data supplied. The study project's validity and robustness are strengthened by the literature review's use of such trustworthy and pertinent sources.

A thorough and thorough effort to tackling the study subject of shaft friction in non-displacement piles in sand is shown by the incorporation of recent and pertinent references. It makes ensuring that the literature review accurately reflects the most recent methodology, research findings, and business practises, laying the groundwork for the research project's future analysis and discussion.

2.3 Critically Assessed The Literature

Yes, the literature on shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sand has been critically evaluated in terms of how similar, distinct, and connected it is to one another and the research project.

Analysis of similarities and differences between various research has been done as part of the literature review. Understanding the variety of methodology, experimental designs, and conclusions within the area is made easier by this appraisal. Insights into the variables that affect shaft friction are provided by highlighting the variances in study techniques, parameters examined, and reported outcomes (Franza et al. 2021). The literature review acknowledges the many views and methodologies used in the subject and finds any gaps or inconsistencies in the body of knowledge by pointing out these parallels and differences.

Figure 3: Large diameter board pile
(Source: Franza et al. 2021)

The literature's relevance to the research project has also been looked at. The examined studies, which concentrate on the behaviour and performance of non-displacement piles in sandy soil conditions, have been chosen based on their direct relevance to the study subject. The literature includes studies of aspects that are directly connected to the goals of the study project, such as soil qualities, pile shape, installation methods, and interface behaviour. The literature review makes a clear link between the available knowledge and the particular research challenge under consideration by examining this relatedness.

The literature evaluation also looks at the knowledge gaps and constraints in the field. It highlights areas that require more study and in which the suggested research topic can provide something worthwhile (Martinez et al. 2021). This evaluation makes sure that the research endeavour is properly positioned within the existing body of knowledge, completing significant gaps and addressing particular research problems. the critical evaluation of the literature's similarities, differences, and relationships to one another and the research topic aids in defining the context, scope, and importance of the study. It offers a thorough overview of the body of currently available information, identifies areas of agreement and active discussion, and lays the groundwork for the research project's following analysis, methodology, and discussion.

2.4 Discussion of Literature

A fluid flow of ideas is ensured by the review/discussion's continuity in the literature review part, enabling a cogent and logical presentation of the data (Subair et al. 2021). Understanding the research landscape and developing a thorough understanding of the research challenge are made easier by the organisation and structure of the literature review.

To maintain consistency, the literature study starts by giving a general overview of the subject matter and emphasising how crucial it is to comprehend shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sand. The backdrop for the literature review is established by this introduction, which also sets the stage for the next parts.

The review then moves forward by methodically addressing the critical elements connected to shaft friction (Chandiwala et al. 2023). It examines the literature on soil characteristics, pile shape, installation methods, and interface behaviour, giving each topic its own section or paragraph. With each paragraph building on the one before it, this systematic technique makes sure that the topic moves along without interruption. A logical sequence for the literature is offered within each subsection. The studies' introductions provide crucial information about each, including the authors, the year of publication, and the goals of the investigations. It is possible to clearly comprehend how each study addressed the analysis of shaft friction thanks to the descriptions of the techniques and experimental setups. The results and findings of the investigations are then presented, stressing the most important findings and observations.

The literature review uses transitional phrases and linking sentences to improve the discussion's flow. These support the creation of a cohesive narrative throughout the section by tying together the ideas and concepts presented in various studies.The literature review develops interconnections and connections between various research studies by utilising such transitional aspects, showing the parallels, differences, and trends within the literature. the review critically assesses the literature and discusses the research' advantages and disadvantages.

2.5 Implications of The Findings

the literature review portion includes an explanation of how the findings relate to the suggested study (Doan et al. 2020). This debate attempts to connect the research effort on shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sand with the current findings in the literature and highlight their relevance and significance.

Figure 4: Analysis of shaft friction
(Source: Pashayan et al. 2019)

The implications of the results from various studies on the suggested research are extensively examined in the literature review. It highlights how the study project directly relates to the components that have been identified as impacting shaft friction, such as soil characteristics, pile shape, installation methods, and interface behaviour. The review focuses on how important these elements are for comprehending the behaviour and effectiveness of non-displacement piles in sandy soil conditions.

The literature review aids in defining the study objectives and methodology by outlining the consequences of the findings. Based on the available information, it indicates any gaps, restrictions, or areas that require more research. The study also identifies areas of agreement and disagreement in the literature, giving a sense of how the research endeavour might provide new information or advance understanding.

The consideration of the implications also aids in choosing the proper analytical tools and data collection strategies for the study. Based on the knowledge gathered from the examined literature, it suggests potential directions for experimentation, numerical modelling, or analytical study (Mihálik et al. 2023). The discussion of ramifications also covers how the findings might be applied practically. It takes into account how the research's conclusions might be used in actual engineering practise. The review might, for instance, go over how an understanding of the behaviour of the pile-soil interface can be used to optimise pile design, enhance building methods, or improve the overall performance and stability of non-displacement piles in sandy soil.

The discussion of implications helps to build a clear connection between the research project that has been proposed and the findings found in the current literature. It aids in establishing the research's goals and methodology as well as determining the research's possible contributions and useful uses.

2.6 key Findings of Literature Review

Yes, a succinct summary of the significant observations and conclusions made in the analysed research is provided along with the key findings from the literature study. These descriptions attempt to highlight the literature's substantial contributions to our understanding of shaft friction in non-displacement piles of sand while distilling the key information.

The essential findings from each study are carefully extracted and succinctly presented in the literature review. The range of frictional resistance values that have been measured, the sensitivity of shaft friction to different parameters, and the effects of pile shape, soil characteristics, and installation techniques on the frictional behaviour are all included in these summaries.

Figure 5: Piles Foundation structure
(Source: Foglia et al. 2021)

The literature review might, for instance, state that numerous studies have shown that pile roughness has a considerable impact on shaft friction, with smoother piles demonstrating lower frictional resistance than rougher heaps (Foglia et al. 2021). The conclusions about the impact of installation methods on shaft friction may also be included in the summaries. For instance, the analysis of the literature may point out that pre-augering the soil before to installing the piles can lower shaft friction, while driven piles typically have more frictional resistance than statically pushed piles. The literature review offers a succinct summary of the significant findings and observations from the evaluated research by summarising the essential findings. These summaries form the foundation for the study project's following analysis, discussion, and conclusions and help us comprehend the current state of knowledge on shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sand.

3. Research Methodology

3.1 Laboratory Experiments

● Sand specimen preparation: Reproduce the normal properties of sandy soil, controlled circumstances will be set up. Standardized compaction processes will be used to create sand specimens with the appropriate characteristics (Sakr et al. 2023).

● Non-displacement pile installation: Using the proper methods, properly placed piles of various geometries will be made in the sand specimens. To ensure consistency, the installation procedure will be thoroughly watched.

● Application of controlled axial loads: Using a loading frame, controlled axial loads will be applied to the sand sample with installed piles. There will be gradual application of the loads, and the resulting displacements will be measured.

● Shaft friction measurement: The load-displacement relationship along the pile shaft will be measured using load cells and displacement sensors, yielding important information on the behaviour of shaft friction.

3.2 Instrumentation Techniques

● Installation of strain gauges: Record the distribution of strains and stresses throughout the loading process, strain gauges will be positioned strategically along the length of the pile shaft. This will make it possible to analyse the mechanics of load transfer in great detail and the growth of shaft friction (Oliveira et al. 2023).

● Digital image correlation: Eecord deformations and displacements happening at the pile-soil interface, high-resolution imaging techniques, such as digital image correlation, will be used. This non-intrusive technique will give important insights on the behaviour of the interface and contact stresses.

3.3 Numerical Modeling

● Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Using FEA software, a numerical model of the non-displacement pile on sandy soil will be created. Sand's physical features, pile shape, and interface characteristics will all be taken into account by the model. Utilising the experimental data gathered from the laboratory testing, the model will be validated (Bittar et al. 2022).

● Sensitivity analysis: Using different parameters, including pile diameter, embedment depth, and soil qualities, sensitivity analyses will be carried out using the validated numerical model. This will make it easier to evaluate how these parameters affect the behavior of shaft friction and identify important variables affecting pile performance.

● Parametric studies: By systematically adjusting several parameters at once, the numerical model will be used to conduct parametric studies. This can help identify the ideal design parameters and shed light on how various components interact to affect shaft friction.

● Case studies: Using non-displacement piles in sandy soil as an example, the numerical model will be used to simulate and analyze real-world case studies. This will make it possible to examine certain project scenarios and evaluate shaft friction behavior under various site conditions, and supporting the model's suitability for use in real-world engineering applications (Yoo et al. 2023).

● Comparative analysis: In sandy soil conditions, the performance of displacement and non-displacement piles will be compared and evaluated using the numerical model. The benefits and drawbacks of non-displacement piles in terms of shaft friction and overall geotechnical performance will be better-understood thanks to this comparison study.

● Optimisation methods: In order to maximize shaft friction and enhance pile performance in sandy soil, advanced optimization algorithms will be combined with the numerical model to discover the best design parameters for non-displacement piles. To make useful design recommendations, the optimization process will take into account a variety of limitations and goals, like minimizing cost or maximizing load-carrying capacity.

3.4 Data Collection

● Experimental Data: Information on load-displacement relationships, shaft friction, stresses, and deformations will be obtained via laboratory testing. All information will be meticulously recorded to guarantee precision and repeatability (Fattah et al. 2022).

● Numerical Data: Provide a thorough examination of shaft friction, the numerical modeling will produce data on the behavior of non-displacement piles under various conditions. In order to validate and further comprehend the numerical results, experimental data will be compared with them.

4. Analysis and Results

The study's analyses and findings part focuses on the analysis of data from numerical modelling and lab experiments.

Figure 6 : Shaft Resistance of non-displacement piles
(Source: Raju et al. 2023)

The information gathered will be examined with the use of the right analytical techniques in order to assess the variables affecting shaft friction in non-displacement piles in sandy soil conditions. The findings will be presented succinctly and clearly, with any appropriate tables, charts, and illustrations.

4.1 Data Analysis

● Load-Displacement Relationships: The link between applied loads and related displacements along the pile shaft will be ascertained by analyzing the load-displacement data gathered from the laboratory trials. Under various loading circumstances, this analysis will shed light on how shaft friction develops and behaves.

● Shaft Friction Analysis: Shaft friction along the pile shaft will be calculated and examined using the measured load-displacement data. Taking into account elements like pile geometry, soil characteristics, and installation methods, the distribution of shaft friction over the pile length will be investigated (Mihálik et al. 2023).

● Results of the Sensitivity Analysis: Using the numerical model, the results of the sensitivity analysis will be assessed. It will be determined how several factors, such as pile diameter, embedment depth, and soil qualities, affect shaft friction. The key elements influencing pile performance in terms of shaft friction will be determined by this analysis.

4.2 Evaluations and Comparisons

● Comparative Analysis: Verify the correctness and dependability of the numerical simulations, the findings from the numerical model will be compared with the experimental data. The effectiveness of the model in foretelling shaft friction in non-displacement piles will be evaluated by identifying and analysing any discrepancies or variances (Zwara et al. 2022).

● Evaluation of Parametric Studies: Determine the ideal design parameters for non-displacement piles in sandy soil, the results of parametric studies using the numerical model will be examined. A thorough grasp of the combined influences on shaft friction will be possible thanks to the assessment of the effects of changing numerous factors at once.

4.3 Presentation and Explanation of Results

In order to improve comprehension and assist the communication of findings, the results will be succinctly presented and explained utilizing the necessary visual aids, such as tables, charts, and photographs. The tables will provide a summary of the important information, showing the correlations between loads and displacements, the distribution of shaft friction, and parameter variations.

Table 1: Summary of Load-Displacement Relationships and Shaft Friction
(Source: Created by the learner)

Indicating the increasing weights applied to the pile and the accompanying displacements measured along the pile shaft, the table gives a clear and succinct description of the load-displacement relationships. The table also shows the computed shaft friction values, showing how the applied loads cause the shaft friction values to increase.

5. Conclusions

The discussion section of this paper offers a thorough analysis and explanation of the findings related to the shaft friction of non-displacement piles in sandy soil from laboratory testing and numerical modelling. The findings are presented in relation to the study's goals, its questions, and the body of prior research. This conversation produces well-reasoned conclusions and offers suggestions for additional study as well as practical applications.

Analysis and comparison of the numerical modelling and laboratory experiment findings revealed important insights into the behaviour of non-displacement piles in sandy soil conditions. The load-displacement correlations along the pile shaft showed a consistent correlation, demonstrating the piles' ability to support different axial loads and their deformation characteristics. Essential details about the distribution of friction along the pile length were revealed by the computed shaft friction values, which also identified potential slide zones and areas of increased resistance. The discussion goes into additional detail regarding the variables affecting shaft friction, taking into account elements like pile diameter, embedment depth, and soil characteristics. The numerical model's sensitivity analysis and parametric studies enabled a greater comprehension of how these parameters affect the behavior of shaft friction. It was shown that changes in these factors significantly affected how well non-displacement piles performed overall in terms of shaft friction. 

References

Ali, A.M. and Kareem, H.K., 2020. Numerical modelling of small scale model piles under axial static loads. Journal of Engineering Science and Technology, 15(6), pp.3528-46.

Bittar, E.J., Lehane, B.M., Mahdavi, S., Blake, A.P., Richards, D.J. and White, D.J., 2022. A review of a CPT based axial capacity prediction of screw piles in sand. Cone Penetration Testing 2022, pp.838-843.

Chandiwala, A. and Vasanwala, S., 2023. Experimental Study of Lateral Loading on Piled Raft Foundations on Sandy Soil. International Journal of Engineering, 36(1), pp.28-34.

Doan, L.V. and Lehane, B.M., 2019. Shaft capacity of non-displacement piles in silts and clays. In 13th Australia New Zealand Conference on Geomechanics (pp. 339-343). Australian Geomechanics Society.

Doan, L.V. and Lehane, B.M., 2020. Axial capacity of bored piles in very stiff intermediate soils. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 57(9), pp.1417-1426.

Fattah, M.Y., Karkush, M.O., Al-Neami, M.A., Al-Kaabi, T.Y., Hameedi, M.K., Jebur, M.M., Fadhil, S.H. and Al-Dahlaki, M.H., 2022. Observations on the Behavior of
Continuous Flight Auger Piles in Iraq. In Current Trends in Geotechnical Engineering and Construction: Proceedings of 3ICGE-Iraq 2022 (pp. 222-229). Singapore: Springer Nature Singapore.

Foglia, A., Abdel-Rahman, K., Wisotzki, E., Quiroz, T. and Achmus, M., 2021. Large-scale model tests of a single pile and two-pile groups for an offshore platform in sand. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 99(999), pp.1825-1838.

Franza, A., Marshall, A.M. and Jimenez, R., 2021. Non-linear soil–pile interaction induced by ground settlements: pile displacements and internal forces. Géotechnique, 71(3), pp.239-249.

Martinez, A. and O’Hara, K.B., 2021. Skin friction directionality in monotonically-and cyclically-loaded bio-inspired piles in sand. Deep Found. Inst. J, 15(1), pp.1-15.

Mihálik, J., Gago, F., Vlček, J. and Drusa, M., 2023. Evaluation of methods based on CPTu testing for prediction of the bearing capacity of CFA piles. Applied Sciences, 13(5), p.2931.

Mihálik, J., Gago, F., Vlček, J. and Drusa, M., 2023. Evaluation of methods based on CPTu testing for prediction of the bearing capacity of CFA piles. Applied Sciences, 13(5), p.2931.

Oliveira, B.C., Sales, M.M., Angelim, R.R. and Galvani Junior, L.C., 2023. Numerical simulations of displacement piles in a tropical soil. Soils and Rocks, 46.(Sakr et al. 2023)

Pashayan, M. and Moradi, G., 2019. Experimental investigation on efficiency factor of pile groups regarding distance of piles. Civil Engineering Journal, 5(8), pp.1812-1819.

Raju, K.V.S.B., Kiran and Savadatti, P., 2023. An Experimental Investigation on the Uplift and Oblique Pullout Capacity of Belled Piles in Sand. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 41(4), pp.2451-2465.

Sakr, M.A., Azzam, W.R. and Kassim, H.K., 2023. Geotechnical behavior of a single pile in sand with varied cross-section geometries and construction techniques. Innovative Infrastructure Solutions, 8(6), p.169.

Shao, K., Su, Q., Liu, K., Han, X., Xiao, W. and Ren, D., 2023. A new modified method of predicting load-settlement behavior for large-diameter helical piles in sand considering nonlinear degradation of soil stiffness. Marine Georesources & Geotechnology, 41(1), pp.83-98.

Subair, A.H. and Aljorany, A.N., 2021. Shaft Resistance of Long (Flexible) Piles Considering Strength Degradation. Journal of Engineering, 27(3), pp.54-66.

Yoo, B.S., Tran, N.X., Hwang, B.Y. and Kim, S.R., 2023. Variation in axial load distribution of piles in liquefiable slope by centrifuge test. Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, 167, p.107802.

Zwara, Ł. and Bałachowski, L., 2022. Prediction of Pile Shaft Capacity in Tension Based on Some Direct CPT Methods—Vistula Marshland Test Site. Materials, 15(7), p.2426.