Chapter 57 Global ground movements and their effects on piles

Global ground movements may occur for a variety of reasons, but are most commonly associated with cut-and-fill operations, particularly in clay soils. The impact on structural elements such as piles depends strongly on construction sequence, and normally the presence of soft clay or peat is most problematic, since large movements may occur over several months or years. The chapter considers negative skin friction, heave-induced tension and lateral interaction. Lateral ground movements are of particular concern since they have led to the structural failure of piles and pile groups on many occasions.