The goal of this book is to cover the analysis and design of foundations and retaining structures using simple to highly complex methods, depending on the specific requirements of each problem.

For each topic examined, the corresponding approach of the limit equilibrium method is initially presented, which generally represents a conservative approach compared to full soil-structure interaction analysis. However, in the case of small-scale projects, where the computational cost of a full analysis negates the economic benefits of precise design, the limit equilibrium method still appears to be the most suitable solution.

The comparison between the approaches of limit equilibrium and numerical methods remains an interesting point and a field of ongoing development for engineers. For this reason, all topics are also considered within the context of complete interaction (material post-yield behavior, development of sliding mechanisms, detachment, cracking, etc.).

The final design is carried out according to the regulatory provisions of the Eurocode, whose application is now mandatory. The results are compared and commented upon to provide the reader with further insight and a more effective approach to the topics.

Contents

• Surface Foundations
• Response of a Single Pile Under Vertical Loading
• Response of a Pile Group Under Vertical Loading
• Assessment of the Effects of Negative Friction
• Response of a Single Pile Under Horizontal Loading
• Response of a Pile Group Under Horizontal Loading
• Design – Response of Combined Foundations
• Foundations with Shafts
• Soil Nailing
• Retaining Walls of Reinforced Concrete
• Gravity Retaining Walls
• Earth Retaining Structures of Reinforced Soil
• Examples of Numerical Analysis Codes