Engineering Challenges and Lessons Learnt from Centrifuge Modelling of Monopile–Clay Interaction

Cihan Cengiz; Astha Sharma; M. Konstantinou; Rob Zwaan; Wei-Chau Xie; Debasis Mohapatra; Huan Wang; Hans Petter Jostad; Evangelos Kementzetzidis

Publication Title
Engineering Challenges and Lessons Learnt from Centrifuge Modelling of Monopile–Clay Interaction

Abstract

This contribution reports on the practical challenges and engineered solutions encountered during centrifuge model tests within the MIDASclay project, which investigates monopile clay interaction under cyclic lateral loading. Tests were conducted in the Deltares geotechnical centrifuge employing densely-instrumented large-diameter (10 m at prototype scale) aluminium monopiles. Achieving realistic over-consolidated soil conditions required extensive sample preparation and the development of drainage concepts combining horizontal sand layers with vertical drains to accelerate consolidation under high vertical stresses. Installing wished-in-place monopiles proved demanding due to the high undrained strength of the clay, leading to a bespoke installation approach. Lateral loading at high g-levels required careful engineering to avoid oscillation at the pile-actuator interface and to remain within actuator stroke limits, while additional challenges arose, including larger-than-expected pile settlement during cyclic loading. Instrumentation of monopiles and soil also posed challenges, with lessons shared to guide future experimental practice. These difficulties prompted iterative redesigns in interfaces, sensor mounting, and calibration protocols. Alongside selected first-order results, the paper reflects on both the successes and shortcomings of these strategies, highlighting the intricacies of centrifuge monopile testing and offering guidance for future soil-structure interaction studies.

Authors
Cihan Cengiz; Astha Sharma; M. Konstantinou; Rob Zwaan; Wei-Chau Xie; Debasis Mohapatra; Huan Wang; Hans Petter Jostad; Evangelos Kementzetzidis

Published In

11th International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics (ICPMG2026)

Theme

Special Session 2: Seismic behaviour of offshore foundations from dynamic centrifuge testing