Analysis of deep excavation in Boston : Whittle, A J; Hashash, Y M A; Whitman, R V J Geotech Engng Div ASCE V119, N1, Jan 1993, P69–90

Abstract

The authors presented a very interesting and informative case history and compared results of predictions and analyses with actual measurements of movements associated with a deep excavation in Boston. Based on their findings, authors state in synopsis of paper that the results demonstrate that reliable and consistent predictions of soil deformation and groundwater flow can be achieved by advanced methods of analysis without recourse to parametric iteration... While mainbody of paper clearly discusses limitations of finite-element anaiyses, because of incomplete and/or inaccurate subsurface data and because of approximations and simplifications in modeling construction sequence, accuracy and reliability of results of such analyses could be misinterpreted from foregoing statement. This Discussion draws attention to some of most significant limitations of analyses and emphasizes need for caution and a good deal of judgment in applying results of such analyses to design.