ABSTRACT
A foundation is that part of a structure which transmits loads directly to the underlying soil, a process known as soil-structure interaction. This is shown indicatively in Figure 8.1(a). To perform in a satisfactory way, the foundation must be designed to meet two principal performance requirements (known as limit states), namely:
1 such that its capacity or resistance is sufficient to support the loads (actions) applied (i.e. so that it doesn’t collapse);
2 to avoid excessive deformation under these applied loads, which might damage the supported structure or lead to a loss of function.
