Performance Analysis of Buildings Subjected to Foundation Reinforcement

Abstract

Theoretical Framework: Soil uncertainty poses a challenge for engineers when designing foundation projects, potentially leading to errors and subsequent problems in building construction. These problems include excessive settlements, which can aesthetically, functionally, and structurally impact buildings, resulting in discomfort, high costs, and safety risks for people. This study aims to evaluate the model proposed by Gusmão in 2006 to predict the settlement of buildings before, during, and after foundation reinforcement. Method: The methodology adopted for this research involves applying the model to building A, which underwent foundation reinforcement using self-drilling injected micropiles. The measured settlements were analyzed and compared with the results obtained through the application of the model. Results and Discussion: The model matched the settlement curve measured on-site. It was observed that during the pile driving process, the settlement rate increased. This was found through the ratio between the velocities after the start of pile driving and before the start of reinforcement, which showed values greater than 0 in approximately 95.2% of the applied pillars. Building A stabilized slowly. The calculated λ value for building A was 0.0005. Research Implications: The use of the model is an important tool for selecting the type of foundation reinforcement to be adopted. The parameters found help in choosing the type of pile and the construction process, reducing the number of errors and attempts until the most appropriate reinforcement solution is found, consequently lowering the cost. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature, as the application of this model to real cases of reinforcement had not yet been published, making it an innovative contribution to one of the main phases of the process, the design. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by the parameters found and the model's fit to the measurements taken throughout the reinforcement process, proving that the model is satisfactory.