Application of a coupled hydro-mechanical interface model in simulating uplifting problems

Abstract

This paper presents the detailed formulation of a coupled hydro-mechanical structure-soil interface and demonstrates its application in simulating uplifting problems. This interface features real-time prediction of the pore pressure generation and structure-soil separation, and thus rate dependency and ‘breakaway’ can be modeled without user intervention. Constitutive relations of this interface were derived by considering the coupling between soil skeleton and fluid along the interface. A complete finite element formulation and numerical implementation of the interface is provided based on an eight-node element. The performance of this interface is demonstrated by simulating lifting a surfa..