Validation of 3D finite element solution for laterally loaded passive piles

Three full scale field experiments reported by De Beer&Wallays (1972) and Esu&D'Elia (1974) have been modeled using 3D finite element method with PLAXIS 3D. Shear box models were established to eliminate the effect of site geometries and slope angles which were not reported in these cases. Lateral movement of an unstable soil and loading of passive piles were generated by prescribed horizontal surface displacements in the upper half of the shear box model. Measured field values of pile deflection, bending moment and shear force distributions through the pile shafts were obtained with these models. In addition, the accuracy of the 3D finite element method was compared with the accuracy of the other researchers' predictions for these field experiments. According to the analyses results in this study, it can be stated that the proposed 3D models can realistically predict the measured field values. Calculation accuracy of the methodology is verified for uniformand non-uniformhorizontal soil movement profiles, different pile rigidity and pile materials, granular and cohesive soil material alternatives and different drainage conditions.