ABSTRACT
Modelling of foundation behaviour is the main focus of many centrifuge studies. A wide range of foundations have been used in practical situations, including spread foundations, pile foundations and caissons. The main objectives of centrifuge modelling for foundation behaviour are to investigate: (i) load-settlement curves from which yield and ultimate bearing capacity as well as stiffness of the foundation may be determined; (ii) the stress distribution around and in foundations, by which the apportionment of the resistance of the foundation to bearing load and the integrity of the foundation may be examined; and (iii) the performance of foundation systems under working loads as well as extreme loading conditions such as earthquakes and storms.
