Finite element analyses of a shallow foundation on a residual soil from granite using Lade’s model

The paper presents the analysis of a carefully controlled and monitored load test on a 1.20 m diameter circular reinforced concrete footing on a residual soil from granite. The observed results are compared with finite element simulations in which the mechanical behaviour of the soil was reproduced by the model developed by Lade (1977, 1979). The parameters of this model were obtained from laboratory testing on high-quality block samples, including triaxial tests with local strain instrumentation. Conclusions are extracted about the proper way of obtaining the parameters of the elasto-plastic model proposed by Lade from lab test results and about the ability of this model to reproduce soil behaviour.