Experimental Investigation of Skirted Foundation in Sand Subjected to Rapid Uplift

This paper reports results from 1g model tests carried out under single gravity on a skirted foundation installed in sand and subjected to a rapid uplifting force. The effects of displacement rates ranging from 5 mm/s to 450 mm/s on the ultimate capacity, suction pressure inside the skirt compartment, and time of extraction were investigated. Test results indicate that the displacement rate significantly affected the magnitude of uplift resistance, as well as the magnitude of suction under the foundation lid, but had little effect on the relationship between stress and the displacement of the foundation. The shapes of the uplift capacity-displacement curve and the suction-displacement curve were similar for all experimental displacement rates.