Numerical Modeling of Circular Footings Subjected to Monotonic Inclined Loading on Uncemented and Cemented Calcareous Sands

The behavior of a rigid circular footing when subjected to inclined loading on cemented and uncemented calcareous sand is investigated. Results from inclined loading tests of a 25  mm diameter foundation are used to assess the applicability of an existing work-hardening plasticity model that describes combined vertical, moment, and horizontal loading behavior. The model makes use of the force resultants and the corresponding displacements of the footing, and allows predictions of response to be made for any load or displacement combination. The results of retrospective modeling of the experiments using this system "macroelement" method are described and compared to the experimental results and those also obtained by three-dimensional finite element analyses. They show the applicability of the model to conditions different to the tests used in its original design and calibration. With significantly less computation effort than finite element modeling, its versatility as a quick calculation method for the inclined loading of circular footings on both cemented and uncemented calcareous sands is demonstrated.