The Effect of Spatial Variability on Soil Behavior: Load-Deformation Response

摘要

Geotechnical properties vary in space with statistical parameters (mean, deviation, correlation length) that are characteristic for each sediment and formation history. The effects of spatial variability on the macro-scale mechanical properties of soils are investigated using Monte Carlo non-linear finite element simulations. Boundary conditions include radial loading, zero-lateral strain loading, and drained/undrained deviatoric loading. Numerical results show that internal heterogeneity leads to higher compressibility, lower horizontal load transfer, and lower shear resistance in both undrained and drained loading.