NUMERICAL STUDY OF RING FOUNDATIONS NEAR SLOPES USING PLAXIS 3D

The problem caused by ring foundations adjacent to sloped grounds is the interaction between the soil and the structure, considering the loads imposed, which is a complex geotechnical issue. This research focuses on ring foundations used in axisymmetric structures, such as chimneys, water and oil tanks, silos, and wind turbines. This paper aims to numerically investigate the effect of a ground slope on the behavior of a ring foundation resting on sandy soil and subjected to axial loads. PLAXIS 3D software was used for numerical analysis. Some of the most critical parameters studied are the slope angle (β), the distance between the foundation and the top edge of the slope (b), the inner-to-outer radius ratio (ri/ro), and the foundation thickness (t). The results demonstrate significant reductions in bearing capacity and increased settlement with ring foundations close to steep slopes, especially with b/B < 1. The study confirms that a setback distance of b/B ≥ 1 results in performance that is essentially equivalent to that on flat ground. Furthermore, greater slope angles reduce bearing capacity, while greater foundation thickness enhances performance. These results are key to the safe and economical design of foundations on sloped terrain.