Experimental Investigation on Shell Footing Models Employing High-Performance Concrete

Abstract

Shell foundations are increasingly adopted around the world as an economic alternative to traditional flat foundations. Evidence of increased bearing capacity and reduction in settlement behavior exhibited by shell footings, coupled with their high potential resistance to seismic loading and sustained lateral earth pressure is valuable in terms of their geotechnical response. Nevertheless, practical use of shell footings is trailing behind conventional foundation structures due to lagging research on the performance and application of these foundations. The objective of this paper is to present the results of experimental modeling on bearing capacity and settlement of shell foundations. Scaled prototypes footing models were developed and tested to evaluate the geotechnical behavior of the shell footing. The study focused on the effect of the parameters govern the performance of this foundations. Contact pressure was measured at several loading conditions namely; working load and ultimate state. Moreover, shell footing and flat models were casted employing high–strength polymeric concrete (UHPFRC). Experimental investigation tests show on average 40–45% higher load–carrying capacity than its flat counterparts.