Soil–Structure Interaction of Pile in a Sloping Ground Under Different Loading Conditions

Abstract

This paper presents the study of single pile in the sloping ground under different static lateral loading conditions in which the pile is subjected to forward and reverse loading at ground level and slope level. Laboratory experiments are conducted in a test tank with cohesive soil by embedding a semi-infinite pile. The behaviour of the pile is studied by considering three different slopes (1V:3H, 1V:2.5H and 1V:2H) with varying positioning of pile in-terms of relative stiffness factor (R). Relative stiffness is found by conducting lateral load test in horizontal ground condition for the same soil properties. Lateral load corresponding to 5 mm displacement is taken as the ultimate lateral load. The deformation and bending characteristics of the pile are observed for different conditions and compared with pile loaded at the levelled ground. Numerical studies are performed to validate the test results and to assess the effect of water table on pile-slope behaviour. Parameters such as optimum distance from slope crest towards the embankment where the effect of slope becomes void are also studied.