Calculate lateral deformation beneath embankment

[LRJ]

Does anyone know of a simple (e.g. elastic) method to calculate the lateral deformation beneath an embankment which is caused by the (vertical) embankment load? A really simple approach might just be to relate vertical settlement to radial movement using Poisson's ratio, but this seems far too simple. Numerical modelling is out of the question. I had a look at the Poulos and Davis (1974) book, though I could only find a calculation for radial deformation beneath a circular footing, and this had a couple of additional factors to apply in the calculation which seem specific to that problem.

 

[geomane]

The FHWA Soils and Foundations Manual (vol 1 or 2) has a section that discusses lateral squeeze due to embankment loading. I'm not sure if this is what your looking for though.

 

[fattdad]

any load of limited areal extent will impart changes in both vertical and horizontal stress (other than at the symmetry line).

The change in stress (i.e., whether vertical or horizontal) will result in elastic strain and increase in pore pressures.

In layered (or fluvial) soils, there is likely a 2 to 4 fold difference in Cv and Ch.

I eschew the term, "Lateral squeeze." You are either dealing with horizontal movements from horizontal consolidation or outright shear failure. Slope stability will inform the shear failure. Regular consolidation theory will inform dissipation of pore pressures.

It's not like stepping on a tube of toothpaste!

f-d

ípapß gordo ainÆt no madre flaca!

 

[LRJ]

Thanks for pointing out FHWA, jmcc3265. That had something simplistic, but sufficient for my purposes (to check a mechanism could be valid, and give some indication of the magnitude of displacement).