Response of isolated square footing on jointed rock mass under eccentric inclined loading

Abstract

In recent decades, there has been a significant surge in infrastructural development, resulting in a scarcity of suitable locations for the construction of substantial structures such as high-rise buildings, bridges, transmission line towers, etc. Given the inherent strength and stability of rocks in comparison to soil, foundation engineers consistently favor rock mass as the preferred foundation material. However, the behavior of rock mass is profoundly complex due to its non-homogeneous and anisotropic nature. Consequently, an in-depth examination of the behavior of rock mass under various types of loadings becomes imperative to facilitate informed and reliable engineering decisions in the context of rock-based foundations. In this research, the response of isolated square footing on jointed rock mass under eccentric inclined loading is investigated. Finite element software (FEM) Plaxis 3D was used for analysis. From the study, it was observed that, with an increase in the eccentricity and inclination of loading, the bearing capacity factor (N_σ) values decrease. Which means that the bearing capacity of jointed rock mass decreases with an increase in the eccentricity and inclination of loading. It was also observed from the study that, with increases in the GSI value, the load bearing capacity of the rock mass also increases. However, N_σ (Bearing Capacity Factor) values increase up to the GSI value of 35, and then it decreases as the GSI values further increase. Non-dimensional correlations have also been developed to determine the bearing capacity of square footing on jointed rock mass under eccentric inclined loading for different values of GSI.