Numerical model validation for independent check of Rion-Antirion Bridge

This paper presents a systematic approach used for calibrating and validating the finite element models that were used to check an innovative foundation design of Rion-Antirion Bridge main piers, involving a base isolation concept. The calibration and validation exercise was proven essential for geotechnical practitioners in understanding the behavior of the numerical models and capturing the failure mechanisms of a complex foundation-soil-inclusion interaction system, and also essential in predicting the ultimate foundation load carrying capacities under various loading conditions. This paper will focus on the results from the numerical model validation and present the principal results from the analyses conducted to study the influence of steel inclusions on foundation failure behavior and the effects of riprap scour protection around the piers on the sliding shear fuse behavior.

• Introduction

• Geotechnical conditions and seismicity

• Key aspects of design checking and numerical model validation

• Models for foundation-soil-inclusion interaction modeling

• Calibrations and examinations involved in numerical validation

• Sensitivity study by finite element analyses

• Influence of steel inclusions on foundation failure behavior

• Effects of the rip-rap scour protection on base sliding behavior

• Conclusions

• Acknowledgements

• References