ABSTRACT
Marine foundations are used to transmit structural design loadings to the subsoil. The type of foundation element to be employed will depend on (1) the nature of loading, (2) the stiffness and strength of the surface sediments, and (3) the desires of the builder. A summary of the common platform types is shown in Figure 10.1. The two major foundation types are those that employ a surface loading mechanism (shallow foundations) and those that extend down through the surface sediments to a lower layer (deep foundations). An example of a foundation system for surface loading is the mat used on a gravity platform. The deep pile that is used on a jacket platform is an example of a deep foundation system. Examples of various marine foundation types are presented in Figure 10.2.
