Semi-analytical method for plate on layered foundation

The calculation of plate on layered foundation is a difficult and important problem in geotechnique. In this paper a semi-analytical and semi-numerical method is developed for the analysis of plate-layered soil systems. Applying Hankel transform, an expression relating the surface settlement and the reaction of the layered soil is derived. This can be treated as a fundamental solution. Such reaction can be treated as a load acting on the plate in addition to the applied external load and the foundation need not be divided into elements. With the plate modeled by eight-nodded isoparametric elements, the governing equations of the plate can be formed and solved. Numerical examples of plates resting on elastic layered soil are given to demonstrate the advantage of this method, such as economy, accuracy and versatility.