Shape Effect of Square and Circular Footing under Vertical Loading: Experimental and Numerical Studies

In this study, three-dimensional finite-element models incorporating a Mohr-Coulomb elastoplastic material model were validated for the evaluation of the shape effect of square and circular surface footings under vertical loading in c-phi soil. The numerical models were found to closely predict experimental load-settlement relationships. The shape effect was also investigated in relation to the progressive failure around the foundations and the shape of the failure mechanism inside the soil. With detailed parametric studies, the shape factors of square and circular surface footings can be fitted by simple functions of the soil friction angle and footing embedment depth. (C) 2017 American Society of Civil Engineers.