Influence of Pile Type on the Load Transfer Mechanism in Pile-Supported Low Embankments Under Cyclic Loading

This study presents two large-scale model tests to investigate the load transfer mechanism of floating pile-supported embankments subjected to cyclic loading. The soft soil and piles were prepared using Kaolin clay and reinforced concrete. Results on cumulative settlements, pile efficacy, and strain distribution were obtained and analyzed under semi-sinusoidal cyclic loading. The results show that the floating pile increased surface settlement by 7.1% compared to the end-bearing pile-supported embankment. The soil arching in floating pile-supported embankment does not degrade under cyclic loading but slowly enhances with settlement development. Floating piles result in less arching, membrane effect, and pile strain.