Settlement of Shallow Foundation

Version 4.0 Course teacher : Lt Col Mohiuddin,PhD,PEng

June 2023
Settlement of Shallow Foundation
CE441

Lecture Note
CE22, Sec A & B, L4,T1
Refs: July 2023
1. Das, BM, “Principles Foundation Engineering, 8th Ed”, 2016
2. Coduto, Donald, P., “Foundation Design : Principles and Practices”, 2nd Ed,
2013, Chapter-7
3. Craig,RF,Craig’s Soil Mechanics, 7th Ed 2012
What is foundation settlement?
Soils deform under the load of foundation
structures. The total vertical displacement
that occur at foundation level is termed as
settlement

Importance of study
Although the analysis and design of foundation
usually begins with the study of the bearing
capacity of the foundation-soil system, in
general, the settlement of the foundation
controls the design.
Permissible Settlement By BNBC-Table 6.3.7 (Adapted from NBCI, 2005)
 Settlement of Foundation

The total settlement Elastic

St = Si + Sc + Ss Settlement
(Immediate)
Total Si
Foundation
Settlement Primary
Consolidation
St Settlement Sc
(Time
Dependent) Secondary
Ss
Settlement of Foundation

The total settlement,

St = Si + Sc + Ss
or , Se
Where,
Si or Se= Immediate Settlement
(It takes place immediately after application of the loading as a result of elastic
deformation of the soil without change in water content )

Sc= Primary Consolidation Settlement

(The consolidation settlement (Sc) takes place as a result of volume reduction of
the soil caused by extrusion of some of the pore-water from the soil.)

Ss= Secondary Consolidation or Creep

(caused by the viscous resistance of the soil to continuing readjustment of the soil
particles into a closer (or denser) state under the compressive load.)
Settlement of Foundation
Rates of Drainage for settlement
For Granular Soil… Rate of Drainage
Elastic Settlement
Elastic Settlement
Elastic Settlement
Elastic Settlement
Elastic Settlement

15
BASIC CONCEPT OF STRESS DISTRIBUTION
UNDER FOOTING

For calculation of settlement under a footing vertical

stress increment due to foundation loading at any depth
Z need to be determined

Stress under a rectengularly (or Square )

Loaded Area may be calculated by

2 : 1 Method or Method of Approximation

By Elastic Theory ( Exact Solution )

…..Let us refresh our memory of CE341 (we have already learned it

in geotechnical engineering course of L3
 Simplest Method of Computation of Stress Distribution
One of the simplest methods to compute the distribution of stress with depth for a
loaded area is to use the 2 to 1 or 2:1 or 2V:1H or 600 approximation method.
This is an empirical approach based on assumption that the area over which the
load acts increases in a symmetric way with depth.

300
2V
2
600 900
1H 1

Figure : 2:1 stress dissipation concept

 2:1 STRESS DISTRIBUTION 300
(2:1 Method) (600Approximation) 2V

600 900
P 1H
L

z B

z
B+ z

L+
q=applied stress, P=Applied load

q.B.L P Stress at any depth

z   z due to a load P or
( B  z )( L  z ) ( B  z )( L  z ) stress q
Approximate method (2:1)
1 ′ ′ ′
∆ 𝜎 ′ 𝑎𝑣 = ( ∆ 𝜎 𝑡 + 4 ∆ 𝜎 𝑚 + ∆ 𝜎 𝑏 )
6
Δσ’t,m,b=
Effective
pressure
increase
at the top,
middle or
bottom
20
Stresses Caused by a Point Load
Boussinesq Solution
Influence factor , I for point load

Q (load)

r A
 Vertical Stress Under Corner of a Rectangular
Area Carrying Uniform Pressure
The stresses increase under a corner of a
uniformly loaded flexible rectangular area: P

A=BxL
v
Solution By Boussinesq q0=p/A

(corner)

Note : The arctangent term in this equation must be a positive angle in radians . When ,
(m2+n2+1)<(m2n2) it becomes a negative angle. So a term π should be added to the angle.

[
1 2𝑚𝑛 √ 𝑚 2+𝑛 2+1 𝑚2 +𝑛2 +2
( )
−1 2𝑚𝑛 √ 𝑚 +𝑛 +1
( )]
2 2
𝐼= + π + tan
(corner)4 𝜋 𝑚2
+𝑛2
+𝑚2
𝑛2
+1 𝑚2
+𝑛2
+1 𝑚 2
+𝑛 2
− 𝑚 2
𝑛 2
+1
Solution By Newmark (1935) and Modified by Holl (1940)

𝐼=
(corner)
1
2𝜋 [ √ 𝑚
𝑚𝑛
2
+𝑛
2
+1 𝑚
2
1
(
+1
+
𝑛
2
1
+1
+ tan
−1
) (√ 𝑚𝑛
2
𝑚 +𝑛 +1
2 )]
Remember : All tan functions are in radians
 L
Induced vertical stress(Δσ) beneath Centre
the center of a shallow foundation
B z
Newmark solution of Boussinesq’s equation ΔσvIcenter
m=L/B; n=2z/B
Huang (2018)

Solution by Simplified Method : The Boussinesq equations are tedious to solve

by hand. The following approximate formulas are sufficient for virtually all
practical problems. Results of these remain within 5% of Boussinesq’s values

For Circular foundation (Adapted from Poulos and Davis, 1974)

i ed
li f
Note that, for p
m od
circular area, S
For rectangular foundation of width B and length Leth i
B=diameter M

𝑩 𝑩
𝜶 =𝟏 .𝟑𝟖 +𝟎 .𝟔𝟐 𝜷=𝟐 . 𝟔− 𝟎 .𝟖𝟒
𝑳 𝑳
Problem-1 : Calculate the primary consolidation settlement of the NC clay layer due
to the load,P carried by the footing shown in the figure.
For normally consolidated clay 𝑪𝒄 𝑯 𝝈 ′𝒗+∆ 𝝈 ′
primary consolidation settlement, 𝑺= 𝒍𝒐𝒈
𝟏+𝒆𝟎 𝝈 ′𝒗
Where, Cc= 0.009(LL-10)=0.27, Height of clay layer, H=3000mm,
e0=1.0, Footing Depth, Df=1.5m P=890 kN
Effective vertical stress at mid depth of clay layer,
=(1.5+3)x15.7+1.5(18.9 - 9.81)+1.5(17.3 – 9.81)=95.52kPa
EGL
Δσ’at mid depth(z) of clay layer from footing bottom
is, Z= 4.5+(3/2)=6m 1.5m
𝑩
𝜶=𝟏 .𝟑𝟖+𝟎 .𝟔𝟐
𝑳 A=1. 5m x
𝑩
𝜷=𝟐 . 𝟔− 𝟎 .𝟖𝟒 1.5m
𝑳
Now, 3m Dry Sand
γdry = 15.7kN/m3
Footing contact stress, q0= P/A=395.55 kPa 4.5m
γsat = 18.9kN/m 3
= q0Icenter = 395.55x0.027 kPa
NC Clay, γsat = 17.3kN/m3
𝟎.𝟐𝟕𝒙𝟑𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝟗𝟓.𝟓𝟐+𝟏𝟎.𝟕 e0=1.0, LL=40
3m
𝑺= 𝒍𝒐𝒈 =𝟏𝟖.𝟕≈𝟏𝟗𝒎𝒎
𝟏+𝟏 𝟗𝟓.𝟓𝟐 Dense Sand

Note : may be calculated by 2:1 method (See next slide)

Effective vertical stress, at top, mid and bottom of clay layer from footing bottom by
2:1 method is tabulated as under, where,
= P/[(B+z)(L+z)]
Z (m) B+z (m) L+z (m) P (kN) z (kPa)

4.5 6.0 6.0 890 24.72=top P=890 kN

6.0 7.5 7.5 890 15.82=mid
EGL
7.5 9.0 9.0 890 10.99=bottom
1 ′ ′ ′
1.5m
∆ 𝜎 ′ 𝑎𝑣 = ( ∆ 𝜎 𝑡 + 4 ∆ 𝜎 𝑚 + ∆ 𝜎 𝑏 ) (A)
6 A=1. 5m x
= 16.5kPa 1.5m
3m Dry Sand
=(1.5+3)x15.7+1.5(18.9 - 9.81)+1.5(17.3 – 9.81)= 95.52kPa γdry = 15.7kN/m3
(at mid depth of clay from EGL) 4.5m
γsat = 18.9kN/m3
𝑪𝒄 𝑯 𝝈 ′𝒗+∆ 𝝈 ′
𝑺= 𝒍𝒐𝒈
𝟏+𝒆𝟎 𝝈 ′𝒗 NC Clay, γsat = 17.3kN/m3 3m
𝟎. 𝟐𝟕 𝒙 𝟑𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝟗𝟓. 𝟓𝟐+𝟏𝟔 . 𝟓 e0=1.0, LL=40
𝑺= 𝒍𝒐𝒈 =𝟐𝟖𝒎𝒎
𝟏+𝟏 𝟗𝟓. 𝟓𝟐 Dense Sand

By exact solution using equation derived from theory of elasticity by

Boussinesq we get, S=19mm Note that by 2:1 method settlement is
overestimated (28mm) and hence conservative.
 Elastic Soil Settlement
a. Soil is often treated as an elastic medium, linear
or nonlinear to which elastic theory
assumptions and principles of stress and strain
are applied.
b. Settlement computations of this form use the
elastic properties of Poission’s ratio(µ) and Young’s
modulus(E) to represent soil.
c. A general expression for elastic settlement(s)
relation is Where,
q=Net applied pressure on footing
𝐼 B=Footing width
𝑠 𝑒=𝑞𝐵 𝜇 I=Influence factor based on footing
𝐸 shape , depth and extend of elastic region
Depending on the type of soil and foundation geometry the general expression is subjected to modification
 Elastic Settlement From  Boussinesq’s Equation
For estimating the elastic components of settlement, Table-S2 : Typical Values of E
Se ,using  Boussinesq’s assumptions the expression is : Clay _

Based on Consistency :
Where, Soft : (5-25)x103 kPa
(3-8)qc kPa
B=width of the rectengular loaded area or diameter of the
[qc =Cone Penetration Resistance]
circular loaded area stressed with a uniform stress of q (SPT >10)
Stiff : (50-100)x103 kPa
µ= Poisson’s Ratio of the Soil (0.3 to 0.4 for
dense sand and 0.1 to 0.3 for loose sand, 0.5 for Based on Plasticity Index :
saturated clay but typical value is 0.3 to 0.4 ) (100-500)Su(kPa) for PI>30
(Su=Undrained Shear)
(500-1500)Su(kPa) for PI<30
E= Stress – Strain Modulus
I= Influence value Sand
(SPT >20)
_
Loose : (10-25)x103 kPa
Influence Value Table Table : S-1 Dense: (50-150)x103 kPa
500(N+15) kPa [N=SPT N Value]
Shape of loaded area Circle Square Rectangle of length,
(2-4)q L & Width, B
c kPa
Ratio of L/B - 1.0 1.5 2 5 10 100
I for Corner 0.64(edge) 0.56 0.68 0.77 1.05 1.26 1.69
I for center 1.00 1.12 1.36 1.53 2.10 2.52 3.38
 Problem-1(a) : Calculate the Elastic settlement of the foundation
due to the load, P carried by the footing shown in the figure.
For estimating the elastic components of settlement, Se, using  Boussinesq’s
assumptions the expression is :
𝑰 P=890 kN
𝑺𝒆 =𝒒 𝟎 𝑩 ( 𝟏 −𝝁 )
𝟐
𝑬
EGL

q0= P/A – γDf=890/(1.5x1.5) – 15.7x1.5= 372kPa 1.5m

μ= 0.35 (assume), A=1. 5m x
E=25,000 kPa (assume) 1.5m
For, B=L=1.5m, B/L=1, I=1.12 (from table/Chart) 3m Dry Sand
γdry = 15.7kN/m3
𝟏. 𝟏𝟐 4.5m

𝑺𝒆=𝟑𝟕𝟐𝒙𝟏.𝟓 (𝟏 −𝟎.𝟑𝟓 ) =0.02194m  =  2 1. 9 4mm≈22mm

𝟐 γsat = 18.9kN/m 3

𝟐𝟓, 𝟎𝟎𝟎 (Ans) NC Clay, γsat = 17.3kN/m3

e0=1.0, LL=40
3m
Total Settlement = (Elastic + Consolidation) Settlement
= (22+19)= 41mm Dense Sand
According to BNBC total settlement is within permissible limit of close to 50mm (Design is ok)
 Example Problem-2 (1 of 2)
EGL
Compute the immediate settlement or elastic 0.5m
settlement beneath the centre of a 5m x 5m A=5m x 5m
flexible footing resting at 0.5m depth and applying 100kPa
a stress of 100kPa on the following two soil
deposits Clay (unsaturated)
(i) Unsaturated clay of high plasticity with an Su =150kPa 24.5m
average undrained strength of 150kPa for a depth
range of 0-25m below ground surface.
(ii) Dry dense sand with an average E=30MPa for EGL
a depth down to 10m and below that to a depth of
0.5m
25m with an average E=60MPa
Solution (i) Clay Layer 100kPa

From Table S-2 : For high plastic clay (PI>30), E may be

considered as (100-500)Su kPa Dry Dense Sand,
E=30MPa
9.5m
Let us consider, E=300 Su kPa = 300x150 kPa = 45, 000 kPa =
45 MPa, µ = 0.35
Footing’s L/B ratio is 5/5=1, From table S-1, Influence value, Dry Dense Sand,
E=60MPa 25m
Icentre= 1.12, So, using  Boussinesq’s assumptions, elastic
settlement, Se is 𝟐 𝑰 𝟐 𝟏 . 𝟏𝟐
𝑺𝒆 =𝒒𝑩 ( 𝟏 −𝝁 ) =𝟏𝟎𝟎 𝒙 𝟓 ( 𝟏− 𝟎 .𝟑𝟓 ) =𝟎 . 𝟎𝟏𝟎𝟗𝟐𝒎=𝟏𝟎 . 𝟗𝟐 𝒎𝒎
𝑬 𝟒𝟓𝟎𝟎𝟎
 Example Problem-2 (2 of 2)

Compute the immediate settlement or elastic settlement beneath

the centre of a 5m x 5m flexible footing resting at 0.5m depth and
applying a stress of 100kPa on the following two soil deposits
(ii) Dry dense sand with an average E=30MPa for a depth down to
10m and below that to a depth of 25m with an average E=60MPa

Solution (ii) For Sandy Soil

Here, E1=30MPa up to 10m depth(h1) and E2=60MPa, below 10m up to 25m depth(h2)
Up to a depth of 25m (=5B) the weighted value of E is

= 48000kPa

For dense sand assume, µ = 0.3, Also given that, B=5m, q=100kPa
Footing’s L/B ratio is 5/5=1, From table S-1, Influence value, Icentre= 1.12
So, using  Boussinesq’s assumptions, elastic settlement, Se is
 Settlement in Clay
(Consolidation Settlement)

Let us clear our

concept of
related
terminologies
 Settlement of Clay (Fine grained Soil)
Total settlement, ST=Si+Sc+Ss (Immediate + Consolidation + Secondary or Creep)
Elastic deformation without change Result of volume reduction due to Caused by viscous
in water content (predominant in extrusion of pore water resistance of soil with
coarse grained soil) (predominant in fine grained soil) continued readjustment.
(predominant in fine
grained soil)

(Void ratio)
Theory of Consolidation H -e Relation (In clay soil)
H
average vertical strain = .......(1)
Ho
q kPa
GL q kPa
H
GL

Ho
saturated clay saturated clay
e = eo e = eo - e
Time = 0+ Time = 
Theory of Consolidation H -e Relation
Consider an element where Vs = 1 initially

e
eo

Time = 0+ Time = 
e
average vertical strain = .....( 2)
1  eo
Theory of Consolidation H -e Relation

Equating the two expressions (1) & (2) for average

vertical strain,

consolidation change in void ratio

settlement
H e

Ho 1  eo

initial thickness of initial void ratio

clay layer
Theory of Consolidation Coefficient of volume
compressibility, mv
Actually it is nothing but
It is denoted by mv Strain/Stress

It is the volumetric strain in a clay element

per unit increase in stress
no units
Volumetric
Strain
change in volume

original volume V av
i.e.,
mv  V 1 e
kPa-1 or MPa-1 
V
Σ mvΔσ = strain (settlement) kPa or MPa
36

Increase in Stress
For consolidation settlement when to use c c and mv ?
The final consolidation settlement can be calculated
using any of the following expressions
∆𝑒
S c= 𝐻 S c=𝑚𝑣 𝐻 ∆ 𝜎 H e
1+𝑒 0 
Ho 1  eo
cc  '0   'av
sc  H log10
1  e0  '0 Σ mvΔσ = strain (settlement)

Note : e
It is convenient to eo
use cc when dealing
with normally 1
consolidated clays
and mv for over
Time = 0+ Time = 
consolidated clays
Example Problem-3: Consolidation Settlement
Q=200MN
Sand Sand
2m γ =15.7kN/m3
30m x 40m

2m
Water table

13m Sand
γsat =19.1 kN/m3

NC Clay, γsat =18.6 kN/m3

6m
Cc =0.28, e0=0.9

Consider a planned mat foundation 30m x 40m as shown in the

figure. The total DL+LL on the raft is 200MN. Estimate the
consolidation settlement at the centre of the foundation.
 Example Problem-3: calculation of Δσ
q0=200,000/(30x40)-
Q=200MN
2x15.7= 135.26kPa
Sand Sand
Here,
2m γ =15.7kN/m3
30m x 40m B=30/2, L=40/2
For Calculation of I
2m at the centre
Water table
Δσ’c1(kPa)= q04I1=
Z1=15m
Z2=18m
Z3=21m
13m Sand 135.22x4x0.168= 102.76kPa
γsat =19.1 kN/m3
Δσ’c2(kPa)= q04I2=
3m NC Clay, γsat =18.6 kN/m3 135.22x4x0.168= 90.86kPa
Clay layer 6m
3m Cc =0.28, e0=0.9
Δσ’c3(kPa)= q04I3=
𝐼=
1
2𝜋 [ 𝑚𝑛 1
+
(
1
√ 𝑚2 +𝑛2 +1 𝑚2 +1 𝑛2 +1
+ tan
−1
) ( 𝑚𝑛
)]
135.22x4x0.148=
√𝑚 +𝑛 +1 80kPa
2 2

m1= B/Z1=15/15=1 n1= L/Z1=20/15=1.33 I1= 0.190 Δσ’c1(kPa)= 102.76

m2= B/Z2=15/18=0.833 n2= L/Z2=20/18=1.11 I2= 0.168 Δσ’c2(kPa)= 90.86

m3= B/Z3=15/21=0.714 n3= L/Z3=20/21=0.95 I3= 0.148 Δσ’c3(kPa)= 80.0

 Example Problem-3: (Clay)
Q Given that,
Sand Sand Q=200MN=200x1000kN
2m γ =15.7kN/m3 So, net load per unit area q=
30m x 40m
(Q/A)-γDf= [200,000/(30x40)]
2m
Water table – 15.7x2 = 135.27kPa

13m Sand Now using elastic theory

γsat =19.1 kN/m3 average pressure increase at the
middle of the clay layer is
NC Clay, γsat =18.6 kN/m3
6m
Cc =0.28, e0=0.9
1 ′ ′ ′
=91kPa
∆ 𝜎 ′ 𝑎𝑣 = (∆ 𝜎 𝑡 + 4 ∆ 𝜎 𝑚 + ∆ 𝜎 𝑏 )
6
Vertical stress at the mid of clay, σ’0= 4x15.7+13x(19.1-9.81)+(6/2)(18.6-9.81)=210kPa
Now the consolidation settlement at the centre of the foundation
Cc  '   'av 0.28 210  91.18
s H log10 0  (6 x1000) log10  138.24mm
1  e0  '0 1  0.9 210 (Ans)
 Elastic Settlement of Foundation on Saturated Clay
Janbu, Bjerrum, and Kjaernsli (1956) proposed an equation for evaluation of the
average elastic settlement of flexible foundations on saturated clay soils (Poisson’s
ratio, μs = 0.5) as under

Se = A1 A2 q B/Es

Where, q=Net pressure at foundation level, A1 is a function H/B and L/B, and A2 is
a function of Df/B. Christian and Carrier (1978) have modified the values of A1 and
2.0
A2 to some extent as presented in Figure . L/B = ∞
1.0 L/B = 10
1.5
5
0.9 1.0 2
A1 Square
A2
Circle
0.5
0.8 5 10 15 20
0
Df/B 0
0.1 1 10 10 1000
0
H /B
Values of A1 and A2 for elastic settlement calculation (after Christian and Carrier, 1978)
q = Net pressure at foundation level
 Figure : Factors for
average immediate
settlement in saturated
clay or silty clay soils
A2 (from Knappett and Craig, 2012;
after Christian and Carrier,
1978).

A1

Se = A1 A2 q B/Es
 Problem 4 : Settlement in Clay (Cont – 1/3)

An oil storage tank 35m in diameter is located 2m below the surface of a deposit
of clay 32m thick, which overlies a firm stratum. The net foundation pressures at
the foundation level equal 105 kN/m2. The average values of mv and pore
pressure coefficient A for the clay are 0.14 m 2/MN and 0.65, respectively. The
undrained value of Young’s modulus is estimated to be 40 MN/m 2. Determine the
total settlement (excluding settlement due to secondary compression or creep)
under the centre of the tank. Take settlement coefficient, k=0.775. Also consider,

Solution : The clay deposit is considered a

thick layer; there will be significant lateral
strain (resulting in immediate or elastic
settlement in the clay) and therefore it
would be appropriate if the Skempton–
Bjerrum method is used in the settlement
computations. Accordingly, the total
settlement (excluding settlement due to
The net pressure at foundation level=105kPa
The average value of mv=0.14m2/MN
For Clay, pore pressure coefficient, A =0.65
Undrained Young’s modulus, E= 40 MN/m2
Settlement coefficient, K=0.775
𝑯
𝑺𝒐𝒆𝒅 =∫ 𝒎 𝒗 𝝈 𝒛 𝒅𝒛
Sc =k ∑Soed
′

secondary compression or creep) is given 𝒐

by: ST = Se + Sc
[ ]
1
𝜎 𝑧 =𝑞𝐼 𝑐=𝑞 1 −

{ }
2 3
𝑅 2
1+ 2
Si=Elastic or Immediate settlement and Sc=Consolidation settlement 𝑧
 Problem 4: Settlement in Clay (Cont – 2/3)

a. Elastic or Immediate Settlement (Si or Se) Calculation :

We know, Se = A1 A2 q [ B/Es ]
For H/B=30/35=0.857 and Df/B=2/35=0.057 ;
From figures we get, A2=0.99, A1=0.35
Given that, q = Net pressure at foundation level = 105kPa
Es = Undrained Young’s modulus = 40 MN/m2 =40,000kPa
Now, Se = A1 A2 q [ B/Es ] = 0.35x0.99x105x[35/(40x1000)]
= 0.03183m ≈ 32mm

Df = 2m
Saturated
=(32-2)=30m
clay
=35m
 Consolidation Settlement
Skempton-Bjerrum Metod ( With Lateral Strain Consideration)
1. In the Terzaghi’s one-dimensional
method lateral strains are not
considered. There are many situations
where significant lateral strain will
occur and the initial excess pore water
pressure will depend on the in-situ
stress conditions. B=Footing
2. In these cases, there will be an width or
diameter.
immediate settlement, under undrained H= Layer
conditions, in addition to the thickness
consolidation settlement. A is the Pore
3. According to Skempton and Bjerrum pressure coefficient
(1957), when the soil experiences lateral
strain, Consolidation Settlement (Sc) is
Fig : Settlement coefficients, K for circular
related to settlement calculated from and strip foundations.
results of an Oedometer test (Soed)
According to Craig (2004), values of K are:
given by: Soft, sensitive clays : 1.0 to 1.2
𝑯
Normally consolidated clays : 0.7 to 1.0
Sc=KSoed 𝑺𝒐𝒆𝒅 =∫ 𝒎 𝒗 𝝈 𝒛 𝒅𝒛
′
Lightly overconsolidated clays : 0.5 to 0.7
𝒐 Heavily overconsolidated clays : 0.2 to 0.5
 mv=0.14m2/MN =105kPa
Problem 5: Settlement in Clay Pore pressure Saturated Df = 2m
(Cont – 3/3) coefficient,
b. Consolidation Settlement: A=0.65
Clay =(32-2)=30m
In order to compute the E=40MN/m2
=35m
consolidation settlement more
accurately, assume the clay below
the foundation level is divided into 6
layers of equal thicknesses as shown
in the figure :
Total Layer thickness(H) below foundation bottom(m) =30
No. of Sub Layers = 6
Thickness of each layer,dz (m) = 5
Tank Diameter, D (m) = 35
Net pressure, q (kPa) = 105
Coefficient of volume compressibility, mv(m2/MN)= 0.14
Settlement coefficient, K= 0.775
Vertical stress at layer mid depth, σ' zi = qIc  
Layer Zi(m) Ic σ'z=qIc(MPa) Soed(mm)
I 2.5 1.00 0.1047 73.3
II 7.5 0.94 0.0986 69.0 𝑯
𝑺𝒐𝒆𝒅 =∫ 𝒎 𝒗 𝝈 𝒛 𝒅𝒛
′
III 12.5 0.80 0.0844 59.1
IV 17.5 0.65 0.0679 47.5 Sc =k ∑Soed 𝒐

[ ]
V 22.5 0.51 0.0534 37.4 𝜎 𝑧 =𝑞𝐼 𝑐=𝑞 1 −
1

{ }
3
VI 27.5 0.40 0.0419 29.4 𝑅
1+ 2
2
2 Excell
      ∑Soed = 316 𝑧

Sc = K.∑Soed= 245 mm Total Settlement, ST=Si+Sc=32+245=277mm (Ans)

 Assignment Problem 6 : Settlement in Clay

A circular footing of 3m radius founded at 2m depth below ground

surface as shown in the figure. Assume that there will be significant
lateral strain in the clay layer. Determine the total settlement under the
footing centre. Consider settlement coefficient, K for circular
foundation is 0.55.

(Note: For settlement Net q=160 kPa 2.0m

calculation divide the Silty Sand
clay layer in to 3,4,6 or
8 equal sub layers. The Diameter=6m
more sub layer you
Z 12m
consider the better Stiff Clay
accuracy you get in mv = 0.13m2/MN
settlement calculation ) Eu= 55 MN/m2

Firm Stratum
 Solution of
Assignment
Problem 6 :
Settlement in Clay

Solved by
Shadman Mahbub
CE19, June2020
 Solution of
Assignment
Problem 6 :
Settlement in Clay
 Solution of
Assignment
Problem 6 :
Settlement in Clay
 Practice Problem 7 : Settlement in Clay

A 10 m x 10 m square rigid footing is founded at 2m depth below

ground surface as shown in the figure. Calculate the total consolidation
settlement of the rigid footing. Also determine the time required to
reach 50% and 90% consolidation.
(Note: For settlement calculation
divide the clay layer in to few sub
layers. Here first 3m clay layer may Sand Net q=100 kPa 2.0m
be sub-layer A and remaining 4m γ= 20 kN/m3
may be considered as sub-layer B.)
10 m x 10 m Rigid Footing
3.0m
Z Sand
(i)
Clay 7m
𝑩 𝑩 mv = 0.0001m2/MN
𝜶 =𝟏 .𝟑𝟖 +𝟎 .𝟔𝟐 𝜷=𝟐 . 𝟔− 𝟎 .𝟖𝟒 Cv= 1m2/yr
𝑳 𝑳
Firm Stratum (Sand)
𝐶𝑣 𝑡
2
 U%  (For U up
Tv  
4  100  to 60%) Tv=1.781-0.933log(100-U%) 𝑇 𝑣= 2
(U > 60%) 𝐻❑
 Practice Problem 7 : Settlement in Clay
For the purposes of settlement calculation, the clay will be subdivided
into two layers, A and B, of thickness 3 m and 4 m respectively.
The net increase in foundation stress at The net increase in vertical stress under the
foundation level is 100 — 2 X 20 = 60 kPa centre of layer A = 60 X 0.75 = 45 kPa [ for
z/B=4.5/10, Using equation(i), Icentre=0.75 ]
Similarly, for layer B = 60 X 0.46 = 27.6 kPa
q =100 kPa 2m
Sand
γ= 20 kN/m3

10 m x 10 m Rigid Footing
S c=13.5+11.04=24.54 𝑚𝑚 Z Sand
3m

Making an allowance for the rigidity of the 3m

Clay Sub layer -A
footing by taking a rigidity factor of 0.93,
mv = 0.0001m2/MN
the total consolidation settlement of the Cv= 1m2/yr Sub layer -B 4m
rigid footing is 0.93 X 24.54 = 22.82 mm (Ans)
Firm Stratum (Sand)
Time require to reach 50% consolidation Tv=1.781-0.933log(100-U%) For U= 90%, Tv = 0.848
For U= 50%, Tv = 0.196, Time require to reach 90% consolidation,
, hence, t50= 0.196x3.52/1= 2.401 yr , So, t90=0.848x3.52/1= 10.388 yr
(Ans) (Ans)
 Settlement in Sand (Semi-Empirical Method)
❑
Schmertmann's Method 𝜎′ 𝑧𝐷 ❑
(Based on strain Influence Factor) 𝐶 1=1 − 0.5 𝜎 ′ 𝑧𝐷 =𝛾 𝐷 𝑓
𝑞 𝑛𝑒𝑡
𝒛=𝒛 𝟐
𝑰𝒛
𝑺𝒆=𝑪𝟏 𝑪𝟐 𝑪 𝟑 𝒒𝒏𝒆𝒕 ∑ 𝑬𝒔
∆𝒛
[ σ‘zD= Effective vertical stress at depth , D ]
t >0.1yr
𝒛=𝟎 (Typically t=50yrs is used)
Where, Si=Immediate or Elastic Settlement , ≥0.73
C1 = Depth factor, C3=1, for SQ and Circular footing
C2 = Secondary creep factor If Es is constant over 2B 0.6 𝐵
C3 = Shape factor below the footing base, the 𝑆𝑒=𝐶 1 𝐶 2 𝑞𝑛𝑒𝑡
simplified expression is , 𝐸𝑠
qnet = Net contact pressure
SQ/Circular Footing For L/B
Iz = Strain influence factor at footing with with values
midpoint of soil layer (L/B=1) (L/B≥10) between 1 and
∆z = Thickness of soil layer 10, necessary
Iz Z Iz Z interpolation
Es = Equivalent modulus of elasticity in soil
0.1 0 0.2 0 can be made
Es= β0√(OCR) + β1N60 (kPa) (Coduto, 2012)
0.5 B Bowles suggests
Soil β0 β1 0.5 0.5B
OCR=1, unless clear =Z1 =Z1 Es=500(N60+15)kPa
(sand)
SW/SP 5,000 1,200 evidence of
(sand)

0 4B Schmertmann(1978)
overconsolidation 0 2B
SM/SC 2,500 600 =Z2 =Z2 Es=766N60kPa (sand)
[For CPT use, Es(kPa)=3.5qc for strip and 2.5qc for SQ/Circular footing](Schmertmann, 1978)
 Settlement in
Sand L/B=1
For z=0 to B/2,
Iz = 0.1 + (z/B)(2Izp-0.2)
For z=B/2 to 2B,
Schmertmann's Iz = 0.6671Izp(2-z/B)

Method
Peak values
Peak value of the Strain of the Strain
Influence Factor, Influence

√
Factor, Izp
𝒒𝒏𝒆𝒕
𝑰 𝒛 𝒑 =𝟎.𝟓+𝟎.𝟏 For z=0 to B, Iz = 0.2 + (z/B)(Izp-0.2)
𝝈′ 𝒛𝒑 For z=B to 4B, Iz = 0.333Izp(4-z/B)

σ'zp=Initial vertical effective

stress at depth of peak
strain influence factor
 Rigid foundation vertical Strain Influence Factor, Iz
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6
0 𝒛= 𝒛 𝟐
𝑰𝒛 ∆ 𝒛
Iz = 0.1
+ (Z/B
Iz = )(2I -0
.2)
𝑺 𝒆=𝑪𝟏 𝑪𝟐 𝑪 𝟑 𝒒𝒏𝒆𝒕 ∑ 𝑬𝒔
0.2
zp 𝒛=𝟎
B/2
Depth below foundation level, Z (Z= 0 to 4B)

+( Peak value of the Strain Influence Factor

Z /B
1 )(I
B = zp -0 Izp=0.5+0.1√(qnet/σ’zp)
L/ .2)
B
Z /B )
2 - c
7 I zp( etri
6
0.6 mm

in
an ≥ 10
= y

tra
Iz xi s
A
es
B
L/

2B
Pl

L/B Depth Zone For values

B)

between 1
Z/

Z1 Z2
-

and 10
(4p
Iz

1 0.5B 2B necessary
33

3B
0 .3

interpolation
Iz =

≥10 B 4B can be made

____Axisymmetric (SQ/Circular footing, L/B=1) Z

(Thick Foundation) (Thin Foundation)
_ _ Plane strain (Long footing, L/B ≥ 10)
4B B=Least dimension of foundation Elastic Settlement
L= Foundation Length Se(rigid) ≈ 0.93Se(flexible, center)
 Problem-1 : Elastic Settlement in Sand (Cont – 1/3)

The Figure shows results of a CPT

(qc) sounding performed at a certain
site. The soil profile consists of
normally consolidated sands with
some interbedded silts. The 2.5m
groundwater table exists at a depth of
2.0m below the ground surface. A
long footing of 2.5m×30.0m is
required to support a total load,
including weights of the footing and
backfill soil, equal to 197kN/m2 and
will be founded at a depth of 2.0m.
Use Schmertmann’s method to
compute the settlement of this footing Layer I ii iii iv v vi vii
soon after construction and the
Depth(m) 2-3 3-5 5-6 6-7 7-8 8-9 9-12
settlement 50 years after construction.
qc (kg/cm2) 20 30 41 68 90 58 108
 Problem-1 : Elastic Settlement in Sand (Cont – 2/3)
𝒛=𝒛 𝟐
𝑰𝒛 ∆ 𝒛
We know, 𝑺𝒆=𝑪𝟏 𝑪𝟐 𝑪 𝟑 𝒒𝒏𝒆𝒕 ∑
𝒛=𝟎 𝑬 𝒔
1. Calculation of Strain Influence Depth
Footing, L=30m, B=2.5m, So, L/B=12>10, Hence
=2.5m=Z1 Izp=0.5+0.1√(qnet/σ’zp)
according to Schmertmann,
Footing (L/B>10)
Iz Z 2m
0.2 0 2.5m
0.5 B=2.5m=Z1
0 4B=4x2.5=10m=Z2 =10m=Z2
Influence Depth=4B=4x2.5=10m
Hence all seven layers to be
considered in the settlement
computation. Using Es=3.5qc (with 1kPa=0.01kg/cm2)
Layer I ii iii iv v vi vii Izp=0.5+0.1√(q’/σ’zp)
qc (kg/cm2) 20 30 41 68 90 58 108 q‘=qnet=197-2x17=163kPa
Es(kPa) 7000 10500 14350 23800 31500 20300 37800 σ‘zp= 2x17+2.5(20-9.81)=59.5kPa
Izp=0.5+0.1√(163/59.5)= 0.666
2. Calculation of Peak value of the Strain Influence Factor,Izp
 Problem-1 : Elastic Settlement in Sand (Cont – 3/3)
3. Determining the value of (IzΔz/Es) : Considering
L/B ≥ 10 (continuous footing)
For z=0 to B, Iz = 0.2 + (z/B)(Izp-0.2) (B=2.5m) Iz
For z=B to 4B, Iz = 0.333Izp(4-z/B)
Layer Es(kPa) z(m) Iz Δz IzΔz/Es
I 7000 0.5 0.293 1 4.19E-05
II 10500 2 0.573 2 1.09E-04
III 14350 3.5 0.577 1 4.02E-05
IV 23800 4.5 0.488 1 2.05E-05
V 31500 5.5 0.399 1 1.27E-05
VI 20300 6.5 0.310 1 1.53E-05
VII 37800 8.5 0.133 3 1.06E-05
𝜎 ′❑
𝑧𝐷 0.5 ( 2 𝑥 17 ) ∑=2.50E-04
𝐶 1=1 − 0.5 =1 − =0.896
𝑞
′
163 q‘=197-2x17=163kPa 𝜎 ′ ❑𝑧𝐷 =𝛾 𝐷 𝑓 3
𝑎𝑡 𝑡=0.1 𝑦𝑟 , 𝐶 2=1+0.2𝑙𝑜𝑔 10 𝑡=1+0.2 log ⁡( 10 𝑥 0.1)=1+0=1 5
6
0.73),use,C3=0.73 7

9
𝑰𝒛∆𝒛
𝑺 𝒆=𝑪𝟏 𝑪𝟐 𝑪 𝟑 𝒒𝒏𝒆𝒕 ∑ =𝟎.𝟖𝟗𝟔 𝒙 𝟏 𝒙 𝟎.𝟕𝟑 𝒙 𝟏𝟔𝟑 𝒙 𝟎.𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟐𝟓=𝟎.𝟎𝟐𝟔𝟔 𝒎≈ 𝟐𝟕𝒎𝒎
𝑬𝒔
At t=50yr, C2= 1+0.2 log (50/0.1)=1.54. Now settlement, Se=27x1.54=42mm(Ans)
 Excel Problem-2 : Elastic Settlement in Sand (Cont – 1/2)

Problem 2 : A column load of 500 kN is Given data  

supported on a 1.5m × 2.0m spread L(m)= 2
footing. The foundation depth equals 0.5m. B(m)= 1.5
Assume γ of the backfill material is So, L/B= 1.33
approximately the same as γ of concrete. Foundation Depth, Df (m)= 0.5
The soil profile consists of clean, well Column Load(kN)= 500
graded, normally consolidated sand with γ Concrete unit wt, γ(kN/m3)= 24
= 17kN/m3 and the following SPT results: Base soil, γ(kN/m3)= 17
Depth(m) 1 2 3 4 5 Ground Water Table (m)= 25
N60 (blow) 12 13 13 18 22 Settlement Period,t (Year)= 30
The ground water table is at a depth of 25 SPT Data & Calculation
Depth (m) 1 2 3
m. Using Schmertmann’s method, compute N60 12 13 13
the total settlement at t = 30 years.
Es=β0√(OCR)+β1N60
(kPa) 19400 20600 20600
Solution We Know, Soil β0 β1
SPT Data & Calculation
SW/SP 5,000 1,200
Es= β0√(OCR) + β1N60 (kPa) Depth (m) 4 5
SM/SC 2,500 600
N60 18 22
For clean, well graded, normally consolidated sand Es=β0√(OCR)+β1N60 (kPa) 26600 31400
Consider, OCR=1, β0=5,000, β1=1200,
 Excel Problem-2 : Elastic Settlement in Sand (Cont – 2/2)
We know, Vertical Strain Influence Factor, Iz
Depth(m) 1 2 3 4 5
B=1.5m N60 12 13 13 18 22 0 0.1 0.2 0.7 0.8
L/B Depth Zone 0
Since , L/B=1.33>1 Iz = 0.1
+ (Z/B
Z1 Z2 )(2I -0
necessary 0.75m Iz = zp .2)
0.2
1 0.5B 2B interpolation to B/2 +(
Z /B 0.783
1m Izp=0.5+0.1√(qnet/σ’zp)

Depth , Z (Z= 0 to 4B)

)
be made between
/B =1 (I
zp -0
.2)
Izp
≥10 B 4B L/B=1 and 10 1.5m L
B
Now figures are drawn for detail calculation  - Z/B) 0.724
2
qnet (kPa)= 170.2 I zp(
et ric
2m 67
0.6 m

in
ym

an ≥ 10
For Sq footing,σzD at 0.5B (kPa)= 21.25 I z=

tra
is
Ax

es
B
For Sq footing,Izp = 0.783

L/
3m
For Long footing,σzD at B (kPa)= 34 2B ∑(IzΔz/Es)=6.40E-05

Pl
C1=1-0.5 (γ'z/qnet)= 0.975
For Long footing,Izp = 0.724 C2=1+0.2Log(10t) = 1.495 C3=1.03-0.03L/B);>0.73 = 1.0
Layer No. 1 2 3 4 5
Es (kPa)= 19400 20600 20600 26600 31400 𝒛= 𝒛 𝟐
𝑰𝒛 ∆ 𝒛

B)
∑
4m

Z/
Z(m) 𝑺 𝒆=𝑪𝟏 𝑪𝟐 𝑪 𝟑 𝒒𝒏𝒆𝒕

-
(4
(Layer mid depth)= 0.5 1.5 2.5 3.5 4.5
𝑬𝒔

p
Iz
𝒛=𝟎

33
Δz (m)= 1 1 1 1 1 4.5m 3B

0 .3
Z/B= 0.33 1.00 1.67 2.33 3.00
Depth SQ(L/B=1) Long(L/B≥10)
Iz =
Izp(SQ)= 0.783 0.783 0.783 0.000 0.000
Izp(Long)= 0.724 0.724 0.724 0.724 0.724 5m Z1(m)= 0.75 1.5
Iz(SQ, L/B=1)= 0.555 0.522 0.174 0.000 0.000
Z2(m)= 3 6
Iz(Long, L/B≥10)= 0.375 0.723 0.562 0.402 0.241
Iz(For given L/B)= 0.5486 0.5297 0.1885 0.0149 0.0089 6m Iz (Z0)= 0.1 0.2
IzΔZ/Es = 2.83E-05 2.57E-05 9.15E-06 5.59E-07 2.84E-07 4B Izp (Z1)= 0.783 0.724
Se(m)=C1C2C3qnet∑(IzΔz/Es) =0.0157m=16mm (Ans) Iz (Z2)= 0 0
 Assignment Problem1: Settlement in Sand
Excel

1.2m q=145 kPa γ = 17.5kN/m3

Es (kPa)
6300kPa
B=2m 0.5
Z
1.0
Consider a rectangular foundation 9604 kPa
2m x 4m in plan at a depth of 1.2m 2.0
in a sand deposit, as shown in the 2.5
Figure. Estimate the elastic 3.0
settlement of the foundation using
4.0 8260 kPa
the strain influence factor method.
(Assume time for creep is 10years).
5.0

Assignment Problem 1a : Settlement in Sand

Z (m)
Redo problem 1 considering L=B=2m

(Note : Draw figures Clearly where needed for both the problems)
 Solution of
Assignment
Problem1:
Settlement in Sand
 Solution of
Assignment
Problem1:
Settlement in Sand
 Solution of
Assignment
Problem1:
Settlement in Sand
 Solution of
Assignment
Problem1:
Settlement in Sand
Example Problem : Consolidation Settlement Under a Mat Foundation
Consider a mat foundation 30m x 40m in plan, as shown in the following Figure. The
total dead load and live load on the raft is 200x10 3 kN. Estimate the net ultimate bearing
capacity of foundation and consolidation settlement at the center of the foundation.

Solution

Height of clay layer =Hc=6m

Coefficient of consolidation, Cc=
0.28
Initial Void ratio, e0=0.9
Effective Stress at the mid height
of the clay layer ,
σ’0 = (3.67x15.72)
+13.33(19.1-9.81)
+(6/2)(18.55-9.81) =208kPa
Hc
For, Q=200x103kN, the net load
per unit area is

66
Example Problem : Consolidation Settlement Under a Mat Foundation
Here,
At the centre of raft vertical stress increase at mid depth of the clay layer (z=6/2 B=30/2, L=40/2
For Calculation
+13.33+1.67)=18m to be found out. Here, m=B/z=0.83, n=L/z=1.11, using of I at the centre
following equation, influence value, I=0.168

𝐼=
1
2𝜋 [ 𝑚𝑛
√ 𝑚 +𝑛 +1
2 2
𝑚
2
1
+1
+
(𝑛
2
1
+1
+ tan
−1
) (√ 𝑚𝑛
2 2
𝑚 +𝑛 +1 )]
q0=[200,000/(30x40)]-15.72x2=135.22kPa
Now, Δσ’c(kPa)= q04I=
135.22x4x0.168=90.86kPa

Z=18m
Z is the footing
= bottom to the mid
depth of clay layer
0.1391m =139mm (Ans)

Hc
 Example Problem : Consolidation Settlement Under a Mat Foundation
Settlement calculation by 2:1 method
The average stress increase (between the required depths) below the center of the
entire loaded area can be given as

For z=18m, 𝑞 0 𝐵𝐿 q0=[200,000/(30x40)]-15.72x2=135.22kPa

𝜎 𝑧=
(𝐵+ 𝑍 )(𝐿+ 𝑍 )
kPa

σ’0 = (3.67x15.72) +13.33(19.1-9.81)

+(6/2)(18.55-9.81) =208kPa

= 0.0948m =95mm Z=18m

Remark : 2:1method underestimates the

settlement by 31.5% as it is not exclusively
intended for stress at centre as is considered in
exact solution Hence 2:1 Solution is not applicable here for this large mat
End of Lecture