ABSTRACT
In this study, the finite element method with reduced shear strength is used to evaluate the 2D base stability of excavations. Numerical results of this paper indicate that the base stability of excavations was significantly influenced by the factors such as: (1) the depth to width ratio, (2) the thickness of the soft soil layer between the excavation base and the stiff stratum, and (3) the depth of walls inserted below the excavation base. Surely, the base stability of excavations in soft clays was also influenced by the stiffness of walls, that were not considered here.
