Seismic Uplift Capacity of Horizontal Strip Anchors Using a Modified Pseudodynamic Approach

Abstract

The uplift capacity of shallow horizontal strip anchors embedded in cohesionless soil has been obtained under seismic conditions. The limit equilibrium approach with log spiral failure surface together with modified pseudodynamic seismic forces has been adopted. In this modified pseudo dynamic approach, the soil is assumed to behave as a viscoelastic material overlying a rigid stratum and subjected to harmonic horizontal acceleration. This modified methodology satisfies the zero-stress boundary condition at the free ground surface. In the present methodology, the amplification of seismic acceleration depends on the soil properties and can be evaluated; hence, there is no need for assumption of any amplification value as is usually done in the literature. It is observed that the seismic acceleration distribution along the depth is highly nonlinear. The net seismic vertical uplift capacity factor for a unit weight component of soil (Fγd) is estimated. The results under static and seismic conditions are determined for various combinations of input parameters, such as soil friction angle, embedment ratio, and seismic acceleration. It is observed that the design value of Fγd decreases significantly with an increase in seismic acceleration. As expected, the seismic uplift capacity increases with an increase in embedment ratio and soil friction angle. Results in terms of nondimensional net seismic uplift capacity factor are presented in graphical form. In addition, the present results are compared and found to be in good agreement with a very few available similar results in literature. The present study reveals the lowest critical design values of seismic uplift capacity factor that may be used in seismic design of shallow strip anchors.