Optimization Calculations Research Articles

Giant dipole resonance parameters optimization and photo-neutron cross-section calculations of several spherical and deformed nuclei

Understanding the interaction between photons and matter is crucial for exploring essential questions in nuclear physics. The Giant Dipole Resonance (GDR) is the prevailing mechanism in photo-absorption cross-sections up to 30 MeV. Depending on whether the nucleus is spherical or deformed, the curve of the photo-absorption cross-section versus photon energy is characterized by one or several Lorentzian peaks. Theoretical calculations of photo-absorption cross-sections are largely centered on deducing GDR parameters. These parameters are used in theoretical reaction codes that aim to simulate photon-induced nuclear reactions accurately. In this study, the GDR parameters for the spherical isotopes 115In, 144Sm, 148Sm, 150Sm, and for the deformed isotopes 154Sm, 153Eu, and 160Gd were calculated by optimizing to the experimental data. The calculated GDR parameters were inputted into the TALYS 1.8 code to compute the photo-neutron cross sections, which were then compared with experimental results from the literature. It has been observed that the calculations performed with the obtained GDR parameters are consistent with the experimental data.

Experimental and theoretical investigations for novel 6-nitroquinoxaline-2,3‑dione derivatives: Synthesis, characterization, DFT calculations, ADME analysis, hirshfeld surface calculations, molecular docking studies, and antiproliferation evaluation

This work describes the synthesis of eight different 6-nitro-1,4-disubstituted-quinoxaline-2,3‑dione derivatives (4a-h). The starting material, 6-nitroquinoxaline-2,3‑dione 3 was prepared by reacting 4-nitro-o-phenylenediamine 1 with oxalic acid 2 at reflux in hydrochloric acid. Compound 3 was alkylated with various alkyl halides under solid-liquid phase transfer catalysis (PTC) to give the dialkyl quinoxalines (4a-h). The structures of all compounds obtained were elucidated based on spectroscopic measurements: 1H, 13C NMR, MS and UV spectroscopy and confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies in the case of 4a, 4b, 4f, and 4h. The geometrical parameters and spectral data were also compared with those of a DFT geometry optimization and molecular orbital calculation at the B3LYP/6–311++G (d, p) level of theory. The closest contacts between the molecules of the four structures were investigated by analyzing their Hirshfeld surfaces and docking investigations in the protein EGFR (pdbid: 4HJO). Moreover, the experimental results are correlated to the calculated ones and showed great compatibility. Cell proliferation was used to measure the immunomodulatory activity of 4a-h compared to a control consisting only of normal cells cultured alone to determine their antiproliferative screening which concluded that the quinoxaline derivatives 4c, 4d, 4f and 4g showed immunomodulatory potential.

Simulated annealing algorithm for the optimal design of diffractive structures under fluctuation models

In this paper, to improve the optimization capability of the simulated annealing algorithm (SA) in the optimal design of diffractive structures, the random fluctuation problem in the algorithm is investigated, and a new fluctuation calculation model is proposed. The optimal design of phase-type diffraction gratings and beam-shaping devices verified the fast accuracy of the proposed model. The simulation experimental results show that the model’s introduction is particularly significant in substantially reducing computation time (a threefold increase in computation speed) and improving the algorithm’s optimization finding capability. Finally, the setting of the model parameters is discussed analytically to make the proposed model more applicable and robust. The study results provide guidance and assistance for higher speed and effectiveness in the optimal design using simulated annealing algorithms. It can be applied to any complex and large-scale optimization calculation problem.

Smart DIC: User-independent, accurate and precise DIC measurement with self-adaptively selected optimal calculation parameters

Existing subset-based digital image correlation (DIC) must rely on user-selected key calculation parameters (i.e., subset size and shape function) to proceed with displacement/deformation analysis. However, the lack of clear guidelines for selecting these parameters leads to varying choices among users, thus introducing artificial uncertainty in DIC measurements. Previous theoretical analyses and experimental studies revealed that optimal calculation parameters must account for both local speckle pattern quality and deformation at each required point. That means these key parameters should vary at each calculation point, posing a significant challenge for optimal parameter selection. To tackle this challenge, a novel Smart-DIC is proposed to achieve user-independent, accurate and precise displacement field measurements. This method comprehensively considers the local speckle pattern quality and local deformation at each calculation point, and gives the explicit formulas to determine optimal calculation parameters. Based on these optimal calculation parameters, Smart-DIC outputs accurate and precise displacement measurements without the need for users’ inputs. To validate its metrological performance, numerical tests were processed using data from DIC Challenge 1.0 and real images of tensile tests of a commercial AL-based alloy. The experimental results underscore the capacity of Smart-DIC to efficiently achieve accurate and precise displacement measurements across various scenarios by automatically selecting optimal subset sizes and shape functions.

Dynamic Calculation Method for Zonal Carbon Emissions in Power Systems Based on the Theory of Production Simulation and Carbon Emission Flow Theory

Power systems are the main source of carbon emissions. Currently, coordinated operation strategies of the source–grid–load–storage model considering carbon emissions is primarily expanded from the generation side. For practical power systems, where multiple types of generating units coexist at a single node, it is difficult to develop unit combination strategies that simultaneously consider carbon emission factors and power flow constraints. Therefore, a new power flow calculation method based on connectivity matrix theory was proposed, aiming to address the issues of existing approaches that are too coarse and unable to accurately represent the operating states of multiple units under each node. Furthermore, a new method for dynamic calculation of regional carbon emission based on connectivity matrix and carbon emissions flow was introduced to improve the accuracy of carbon emission measurements. Firstly, a simulation model for a coordinated optimization operation based on the minimum system cost for the source–grid–load was established and an optimal flow calculation method using a connectivity matrix was introduced. Second, a dynamic carbon emission calculation method, considering electricity sources, was developed by combining the results of the optimal power flow calculation with carbon emission flow theory. Finally, the effectiveness of the approach in this article was verified by the IEEE 14-bus system example and a provincial power grid, ensuring strict adherence to the conservation principle of carbon emissions between the supply and demand sides and satisfying power flow constraints.

Insight into the interaction between amino acids and SO2: Detailed bonding modes.

Amino acids are a highly effective and environmentally friendly adsorbent for SO2. However, there has been no comprehensive study of the binding modes between amino acids and SO2 at the molecular level. In this paper, the binding modes of three amino acids (Asp, Lys, and Val) with SO2 are studied comprehensively and in detail using quantum chemical calculations. The results indicate that each amino acid has multiple binding modes: 22 for Asp, 49 for Lys, and 10 for Val. Both the amino and carboxyl groups in amino acids, as well as those in side chains, can serve as binding sites for chalcogen bonds. The binding energies range from - 6.42 to - 1.06kcal/mol for Asp, - 12.43 to - 1.63kcal/mol for Lys, and - 7.42 to - 0.60kcal/mol for Val. Chalcogen and hydrogen bonds play a crucial role in the stronger binding modes. The chalcogen bond is the strongest when interacting with an amino group, with an adiabatic force constant of 0.475 mDyn/Å. Energy decomposition analysis indicates that the interaction is primarily electrostatic attraction, with the orbital and dispersive interactions dependent on the binding mode. Amino acids and complexes of amino acids with SO2 were used to do semi-empirical MD using Molclus combined with xtb at the GFN2 level. Optimization and frequency calculations of the structures were conducted using density-functional theory (DFT) B3LYP/6-311G* (with DFT-D3 correction). Single-point energy calculations were performed for all structures using DLPNO-CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pVTZ with tightPNO. Further analysis of the structures was conducted using ESP, AIM, IGMH, and sob-EDA to gain a deeper understanding of the interactions between amino acids and SO2.

Study on the regulation of ε-CL-20 by an external electric field.

To explore the influence of the external electric field (EEF) on ε-CL-20. The molecular structure, frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs), global reactivity parameters (GRP), surface electrostatic potential, nitro charge, and UV-Vis spectra of ε-CL-20 under EEF were studied using density functional theory (DFT). The calculation results show that the electric field applied along N16-N24 has a significant effect on the structure of ε-CL-20. With an increase in the positive EEF, the bond length of the initiating bond decreases, and the bond order and bond dissociation energy increase, which increases the thermal stability of ε-CL-20 to a certain extent. In addition, with an increase in the positive EEF intensity, the LUMO migrates from both sides of the positive electric field to one side of the nitro group, and the HOMO migrates from the skeleton to the nitro group. It is worth noting that in the negative EEF, when the electric field strength changed from 0 to 0.016 a.u., the negative charge of the total nitro group gradually decreased. When the electric field strength becomes 0.02 a.u., the negative charge of the total nitro group suddenly increases, and ε-CL-20 is significantly polarized. When the electric field strength is sufficiently strong, the occupied and unoccupied orbitals of the ε-CL-20 molecule change, resulting in a change in the energy level difference between the occupied and unoccupied orbitals, which further excites the corresponding excited state, resulting in a new UV-Vis absorption peak. Based on the density functional theory (DFT), the structural optimization and energy calculation were carried out by using B3LYP/6-311 + G(d, p) and B3LYP/def2-TZVPP methods, respectively. After optimization convergence, vibration analysis was performed without imaginary frequencies to obtain stable configurations. Then the molecular structure, frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs), global reactivity parameters (GRP), surface electrostatic potential, nitro charge, and UV-Vis spectra were analyzed.

Investigation of The Use of Nano Powder On Roller Compressible Fibrous Concrete Roads

Despite the fact that our country's road network is inferior to that of industrialized countries, the volume of motor traffic is increasing. Thus, optimal solutions are imperative during both project and construction phases of highway investments. Concrete superstructures offer an alternative to flexible superstructures in various regions globally, including airport runways, warehouses, urban roads, streets, highways and industrial buildings. The objective of this study was to enhance the compressive and flexural strength of concrete and provide resistance against abrasion. To achieve this, a roller compressible concrete (RCC) mixture design was developed by incorporating basalt fiber, nano TiO2, and nano Fe2O3 additives. The experimental results were subjected to statistical analysis via the technique of analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings of the study indicated that the strength performance of the optimal RCC mixture design reinforced with nano powder and fibers was superior to that of conventional concrete. Upon examination on a material basis, it was determined that the compressive strength exhibited an increase when the water/binder ratio was utilised within the range of 0.38–0.4. As the utilisation of nano-Fe2O3 and basalt fiber materials increased, their compressive strength exhibited a corresponding enhancement. The incorporation of basalt fiber into the composite material resulted in an increase in flexural strength at all ratios where it was utilised. It can be concluded that basalt fiber has the greatest potential for enhancing flexural strength. The optimal water-to-binder ratio for flexural properties is between 0.34 and 0.38. While nano powders can have a positive impact, they cannot achieve the maximum level of strength. For improving abrasion resistance, it was established that reducing the water/cement ratio, using fly ash, basalt fiber, and nano Fe2O3 in the mixture decreased abrasion. However, the usage of nano TiO2 did not have a significant positive effect. The material with the least effect on compressive, flexural and abrasion resistance was identified as nano TiO2. When materials other than nano TiO2 are utilised in accordance with the established optimal mixture calculation, the durability of the resulting RCC road will reach the requisite standard.

APPLICATION OF TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION ON A STIFFENING STRUCTURE OF A TANK FOR WATER STORAGE USING FINITE ELEMENT METHOD

The purpose of the present work is to use topology optimization to propose a design for a stiffening structure of a tank for water storage. The structure under topology optimizations is a stiffening structure of a tank made of steel sheet and having the dimensions: 12m length, 2.5m width and 3m height.Some topology optimization on 3D and 2D models of the tank and its stiffening structure were performed for the purpose of qualitatively determining the mass distribution in transverse and longitudinal sections.The conclusions of these analyzes were used for size optimization calculations and for the establishment of a proposed structure consisting of plates for tank and beams for the stiffening and bearing structure. The allowable stress in the size optimization of the structure made of plates and beams was of 100MPa. In all these calculations no buckling was taken into account. These type of calculations can be used for determination of stiffening structure when casting concrete into a metallic coffer.

Switching Current Predictive Control of a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Based on the Exponential Moving Average Algorithm

To improve the dynamic and steady-state control performance of permanent magnet synchronous motors under the three-vector model predictive current control method, this study proposes a switching current predictive control method based on the exponential moving average algorithm, which evaluates the magnitude of the change of the q-axis current slope in real time to discriminate the motor’s operating conditions and selects the optimal control method for different operating conditions. Meanwhile, the traditional three-vector model predictive current control method is improved by introducing a comparison mechanism for the q-axis current slope to select the second effective voltage vector, avoiding the secondary optimization calculation of the value function and reducing the computational complexity of the traditional method. By comparing the proposed method with the traditional three-vector model predictive current control method, the experimental results prove that the proposed method improves the system’s dynamic response and steady-state performance.

Entry guidance for spatial no-fly zones avoidance via model-based reinforcement learning

This paper proposes a novel guidance law for hypersonic entry vehicles, considering no-fly zones with height limits. Traditional planar assumptions restrict the flexibility of trajectory design for scenarios like radar avoidance. Besides, the numerical integration proves inefficient for long-term prediction and avoidance. Therefore, a model-based reinforcement learning policy is designed. It offline learns entry dynamics in advance and onboard plans a feasible trajectory. The planner's state includes flight status and no-fly zones; action presents waypoints; and reward ensures constraint while maximizing terminal precision. Then, analytical prediction converts spatial no-fly zone constraints to flight-path angle constraints, improving precision compared to traditional one-step estimates. Finally, the two parts are assembled into the predictor-corrector framework, which gives the augmented guidance commands. While retaining its robustness to bias, our method reduces online optimization calculations and outperforms constraint satisfaction. Experiments show that the model-based method reduces 60% training in offline training compared with proximal policy optimization. Besides, our method is 80% faster than conventional predictor-corrector guidance regarding online computation speed.

R32-Al5W: A new stable high-temperature alloy

Due to the high melting point, exceptional mechanical properties, and remarkable corrosion resistance exhibited by Al5W, researchers have conducted extensive research on the structural characteristics of Al5W. To identify the lowest energy structures and find new structures, a combination of particle swarm optimization and first-principles calculations was employed to identify energy-favorable Al5W structures under ambient pressure. The experimental P63 phase and the previously predicted R3¯c phase were identified. Notably, a new R32-Al5W phase was proposed. A comparative analysis on the structural stability, elastic, thermodynamic, and electronic properties of these three Al5W phases were conducted. The results indicate that R32-Al5W exhibits favorable thermodynamic stability, with a predicted bulk modulus close to that of R3¯c-Al5W. All the three Al5W phases demonstrate brittle behavior. The P63-Al5W phase displays larger shear anisotropy in the (010) and (001) planes, while the R32-Al5W phase shows greater shear anisotropy on the (100) plane compared to other two phases. Furthermore, employing Clarke’s and Cahill’s models, the minimum thermal conductivity of Al5W phases was predicted, revealing a magnitude order of P63 >R3¯c > R32. Our calculated melting points also conform to this trend.

A rare instance of latent systematic error in volumetric-modulated arc therapy with field-extended multi-isocentre irradiation leading to a serious dose-delivery accident.

Volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) with field-extended multi-isocentre irradiation (VMAT-FEMII) is an effective irradiation technique, particularly for large planning target volumes in the craniocaudal direction. A variety of treatment planning techniques have been reported to reduce the dosimetric impact. However, there is no guarantee that unexpected latent systematic errors would not occur. Herein, we report the experience with a rare case that could have led to a serious VMAT-FEMII-related accident. A patient with uterine cervical carcinoma was scheduled for VMAT-FEMII to the whole pelvis and the para-aortic lymph node region. A combination of the two sets of field groups with different isocentres was planned: one to cover the para-aortic lymph nodes and the other to cover the whole pelvis. Measurements based on the pretreatment dose delivery quality assurance (QA) revealed an unexpected overdose of >20% in the field overlap region. This overdose phenomenon is not reflected in the calculated dose distribution in the radiotherapy treatment planning system. Therefore, the plan was altered; a homogeneous dose distribution inside the dose junction was achieved. Several analyses were performed to elucidate the overdosing phenomenon. However, no conclusive answer was found to why non-reflection at the calculated dose distribution was found. The limitations to VMAT-FEMII are primarily related to systematic errors in the positional setup from patient-derived and/or mechanical sources. However, this report highlights a rare case of overdosing caused by inverse optimization and dose calculation. We recommend checking the aperture status of the jaw and multi-leaf collimator at each control point of the treatment plan and using a high-resolution image measurement system on a VMAT-FEMII QA to confirm the dose junction status.

Low-coordinated Mn–N2 sites in graphene oxide induce peroxydisulfate activation for tetracycline degradation: Process optimization and theoretical calculation

Atom-dispersed low-coordinated transition metal-Nx catalysts exhibit excellent efficiency in activating peroxydisulfate (PDS) for environmental remediation. However, their catalytic performance is limited due to metal-N coordination number and single-atom loading amount. In this study, low-coordinated nitrogen-doped graphene oxide (GO) confined single-atom Mn catalyst (Mn-SA/NGO) was synthesized by molten salt-assisted pyrolysis and coupled to PDS for degradation of tetracycline (TC) in water. Aberration-corrected high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (AC-HAADF-STEM) and X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (XAFS) analysis showed the successful doping of single-atom Mn (weight percentage 1.6%) onto GO and the formation of low-coordinated Mn–N2 sites. The optimized parameters obtained by Box-Behnken Design achieved 100% TC removal in both prediction and experimental results. The Mn-SA/NGO + PDS system had strong anti-interference ability for TC removal in the presence of anions. Besides, Mn-SA/NGO possessed good reusability and stability. O2•−, •OH, and 1O2 were the main active species for TC degradation, and the TC mineralization reached 85.1%. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirmed that the introduction of single atoms Mn could effectively enhance adsorption and activation of PDS. The findings provide a reference for the synthesis of high-performance single-atom catalysts for effective removal of antibiotics.

A real-time performance improvement method for composite time scale

Abstract The composite time scale (CTS) provides a stable, accurate, and reliable time scale for modern society. The improvement of CTS’s real-time performance will improve its stability, which strengths related applications’ performance. Aiming at this goal, a method achieved by determining the optimal calculation interval and accelerating adjustment stage is proposed in this paper. The determinants of the CTS’s calculation interval (characteristics of the clock ensemble, the measurement noise, the time and frequency synchronization system’s noise and the auxiliary output generator noise floor) are studied and the optimal calculation interval is obtained. We also investigate the effect of ensemble algorithm’s initial parameters on the CTS’s adjustment stage. A strategy to get the reasonable initial parameters of ensemble algorithm is designed. The results show that the adjustment stage can be finished rapidly or even can be shorten to zero with reasonable initial parameters. On this basis, we experimentally generate a distributed CTS with a calculation interval of 500 s and its stability outperforms those of the member clocks when the averaging time is longer than ∼1700 s. The experimental result proves that the CTS’s real-time performance is significantly improved.

Optimal path calculation method of optical network under complex constraints

AbstractTo address the optimal solution problem of loop‐free paths in software‐defined optical networks with multiple complex logical relationships, a unified constraint expression is utilized to describe the constraints. The logical relationships of complex constraints are dissected and simplified, differentiating between “AND” and “OR” constraints. An optimal path calculation method is proposed, involving the transformation of the network topology based on various constraints. This transformation includes layering the topology, removing specific links, and adding necessary links to portray the different complex constraints onto the original network structure. Following the topology transformation, an enhanced K‐shortest path algorithm is employed to compute the route satisfying the combination of multiple complex constraints, resulting in the global optimal solution. Experimental results demonstrate that this method can determine the optimal path under intricate constraints in a single computational iteration without requiring prior knowledge of the optimal constraint sequence. Therefore, it offers significant practical value compared to existing algorithms.

Оптимизация гидрологических расчетов систем очистки поверхностного и дренажного стока воды

Objective: to develop a method for determining the optimal hydrological characteristics of systems for treating contaminated surface and drainage waters. Methods: the pollutant balance equation was applied. For comparison, the method of the Vodgeo Research Institute was used. The costs of treatment and environmental damage from pollution of watercourses were studied for various water levels of the year and the parameters of treatment facilities. The main parameters chosen are the types of pollutants (suspended substances and petroleum products) and the separation coefficient of the runoff in the separation chambers. Results: a method has been developed for optimization calculations of the hydrological characteristics of surface and drainage water treatment systems, taking into account the likelihood of runoff during high water and floods, the costs of construction and operation of treatment facilities and damage from pollution of watercourses. As an example, optimization calculations were performed for several options for treating melt, rain and drainage runoff. Practical importance: the method of optimization calculations of environmental protection will allow a more reasonable and accurate determination of the required degree of wastewater treatment, productivity and parameters of treatment facilities, and in some cases — to reduce the degree of pollution of watercourses.

Design and DFT calculations of optoelectronic material based on thiazolobenzimidazole-coupled isatin derivatives

Isatin derivatives were condensedby refluxing ethanol with thiazolobenzimidazole, yielding four linked 2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)benzo [4,5]imidazo-[2,1-b]thiazol-3(2H)-ones. Thermal evaporation was used to deposit thin films of the produced 2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)benzo [4,5]imidazo-[2,1-b]thiazol-3(2H)-one derivatives, which underwent thorough analysis employing UV–Vis and NIR spectroscopy. The spectral profiles of these materials were scrutinized with respect to their absorption, dielectricconstants, and dispersion propertiesand compared to previously published data. The current samples were suitable for application in optoelectronic devices, particularly as solar-absorbent materials, due to their high absorption coefficient (α > 105cm−1) at a solar maximum wavelength (λ = 500 nm). Additionally, their band and optical gap energies have been determined as 3.60, 3.56, 2.53, and 3.24 eV. The conclusions drawn from geometry optimization and nonlinear optical (NLO) calculations, performed using density functional theory (DFT) with the Becke, 3-parameter, Lee–Yang–Parr (B3LYP) approach at the 6–311G (d,p) level, further support these findings.

Computer-aided drug design supporting sunscreen research: a showcase study using previously synthesized hybrid UV filter-antioxidant compounds.

Although quantum mechanical calculations have proven effective in accurately predicting UV absorption and assessing the antioxidant potential of compounds, the utilization of computer-aided drug design (CADD) to support sustainable synthesis research of new sunscreen active ingredients remains an area with limited exploration. Furthermore, there are ongoing concerns about the safety and effectiveness of existing sunscreens. Therefore, it remains crucial to investigate photoprotection mechanisms and develop enhanced strategies for mitigating the harmful effects of UVR exposure, improving both the safety and efficacy of sunscreen products. A previous study conducted synthesis research on eight novel hybrid compounds (I-VIII) for use in sunscreen products by molecular hybridization of trans-resveratrol (RESV), avobenzone (AVO), and octinoxate (OMC). Herein, time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) calculations performed in the gas phase on the isolated hybrid compounds (I-VIII) proved to reproduce the experimental UV absorption. Resveratrol-avobenzone structure-based hybrids (I-IV) present absorption maxima in the UVB range with slight differences between them, while resveratrol-OMC structure-based hybrids (V-VIII) showed main absorption in the UVA range. Among RESV-OMC hybrids, compounds V and VI exhibited higher UV absorption intensity, and compound VIII stood out for its broad-spectrum coverage in our simulations. Furthermore, both in silico and in vitro analyses revealed that compounds VII and VIII exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with compound I emerging as the most reactive antioxidant within RESV-AVO hybrids. The study suggests a preference for the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) mechanism over single-electron transfer followed by proton transfer (SET-PT) in the gas phase. With a strong focus on sustainability, this approach reduces costs and minimizes effluent production in synthesis research, promoting the eco-friendly development of new sunscreen active ingredients. The SPARTAN'20 program was utilized for the geometry optimization and energy calculations of all compounds. Conformer distribution analysis was performed using the Merck molecular force field 94 (MMFF94), and geometry optimization was carried out using the parametric method 6 (PM6) followed by density functional theory (DFT/B3LYP/6-31G(d)). The antioxidant behavior of the hybrid compounds (I-VIII) was determined using the highest occupied molecular orbital (εHOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (εLUMO) energies, as well as the bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE), ionization potential (IP), and proton dissociation enthalpy (PDE) values, all calculated at the same level of structural optimization. TD-DFT study is carried out to calculate the excitation energy using the B3LYP functional with the 6-31G(d) basis set. The calculated transitions were convoluted with a Gaussian profile using the Gabedit program.

Settlement and stress analysis in stabilized slab- and pile-supported embankment based on double-equal settlement plane

PurposeThe soft stabilized slab and pile-supported (SSPS) embankment is an improvement technique to increase the efficiency of resources in road construction. To capture the effects of stabilized slabs on the stress transfer mechanism, the differential settlements and the lateral displacement of the embankment completely. A theoretical model of SSPS is proposed by considering the effect of soil arching and the interaction between the embankment fill, stabilized soil, pile, foundation soil and bearing stratum.Design/methodology/approachIn the theoretical model, the stress and strain coordination relationship of the system was analyzed in view of the minimum potential energy theory and equal settlement plane theory. Subsequently, the theoretical method was applied to field tests for comparison. Finally, the influence of the elastic modulus and the thickness of the stabilized slab on the stress concentration ratio and foundation settlement were examined.FindingsIn addition to the experimental findings, the method has been revealed to be reasonable and feasible, considering its ability to effectively exploit the stabilized slab effect and improve the bearing capacity of soil and piles. An economical and reasonable arrangement scheme for the thickness and strength of stabilized slabs was obtained. The results reveal that the optimum elastic modulus was chosen as 28 MPa–60 MPa, and the optimum thickness of the stabilized slab was selected as 1.5 m–2.1 m using the parameters of field tests, which can provide guidance to engineering design.Originality/valueAn optimization calculation method is established to analyze the load transfer mechanics of the SSPS embankment based on a double-equal settlement plane. The model’s rationality was analyzed by comparing the settlement and stress concentration ratios in the field tests. Subsequently, the influence of the elastic modulus and the thickness of the stabilized slab on the stress concentration ratio and settlement were examined. An economical and reasonable arrangement scheme for the thickness and elastic modulus of stabilized slabs was obtained, which can provide a novel approach for engineering design.