Centrifuge Modelling of Shallow Foundations Subjected to Multi-directional Cyclic Lateral Loading

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4. Centrifuge Modelling of Shallow Foundations Subjected to Multi-directional Cyclic Lateral Loading

This paper presents the response of a 14.4 m diameter gravity base foundation on dense dry sand subjected to long-term multi-directional cyclic lateral loads at height, investigated using centrifuge modelling. The experiment was conducted at 100g using the Geotechnical Centrifuge at Gustave Eiffel University. Perpendicular T-shaped cyclic loading, relevant to offshore wind and wave loads, was applied to the foundation, with a constant mean load along one principal direction and a two-way cyclic load in the perpendicular direction, simulating a wind-wave misalignment of 90^o. Two load packets of different magnitudes were applied, and the rotation response and accumulation of residual settlement were investigated. Ratcheting was observed in both directions, with the primary loading direction causing an asymmetry in accumulated rotation. Notably, the mean (maintained) load amplified the rotations observed along the direction of the cyclic load. Accumulated settlement increased significantly with higher loads, with a 75% increase in load resulting in an 189% increase in accumulated settlement after 112 cycles. These findings suggest that multi-directionality should be considered in the design of offshore shallow foundations to withstand long-term cyclic loading.

5th International Symposium on Frontiers in Offshore Geotechnics (ISFOG2025)

12 - Gravity base foundations, Drag and Plate Anchors