ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses only on design-related elements and presents simple methods which can be used in the design of typical pad footings, piled footings, slabs and retaining walls. Engineering judgement should be used on the applicability of each method in relation to specific designs. Information is presented with the assumption that a geotechnical report is available with the required information and recommendations. The design of pad footings requires analysis of stability and bearing capacity. The stability of pad footings is checked using a combination of self-weight, soil weight, friction, cohesion and passive soil pressure. The chapter presents the Brinch-Hansen method for the common case of a horizontal ground surface and a horizontal footing base. Base and ground inclination has been assumed to be flat, as it is unusual to use sloping footings and surfaces for typical designs.
