Numerical analysis of the influence of reinforcement ratio on the behavior of on-top laterally loaded concrete piles

Abstract

In this research, the behavior of laterally loaded piles is studied, wherein flexure-induced tensile stresses are responsible for the cracking process. The primary focus lies on investigating the direct influence of the reinforcement ratio on the pile's behavior. Through a comprehensive numerical 3D finite element analysis (FEM), the effects of varying reinforcement ratios on laterally loaded piles are examined in terms of displacements, stresses, and yielding. Employing the ABAQUS software, distinct constitutive models are used for concrete piles (Concrete Damage Plasticity model), soil (Mohr-Coulomb model), and steel rebars (elasto-plastic model). The results reveal that higher reinforcement ratios lead to reduced cracking propagation and lateral displacement, consequently enhancing the lateral capacity of concrete piles within the limitations of the soil bearing capacity. Moreover, it is observed that the depth at which a plastic hinge forms in longer piles shows minimal sensitivity to changes in the reinforcement ratio. Additionally, the increase in reinforcement ratio is found to result in decreased bending moments on the piles, accompanied by reduced strains and stresses in the surrounding soil. Overall, this investigation provides crucial insights into optimizing pile design by considering the reinforcement ratio, ultimately enhancing the structural performance and integrity of laterally loaded piles.