A master’s thesis at the College of Engineering at the University of Basrah examined (Analysis by finite elements of weak, cohesive soil improved with column-like elements) by the student Ali Abdul Mohsen Aboud
The thesis dealt with examining the ability of the finite element method to simulate the behavior of improved soils with columns mixed with cement that support floating-roof tanks in the Faw oil depot. , The non-linear (Mohr-Coulomb) and (soft soil) structural relationships were adopted for the properties of columns / soil, and the results were compared with real measurements data.
Due to the large dispersion in the unconfined compressive strength of the shaft material, a value based on behavior rather than examination should be used to obtain the best representation of the shaft load test data.
Two approaches were used to enable the two-dimensional program to simulate the behavior of a group of columns, and here we mean the homogeneous representation and the last loop representation that produces better predictions of the drop values under the center and edge of the reservoir, when verified by field observation. Both approaches reflect the effect of the anchor layer on the results, which was not detected by the analysis of the single columns. It is worth noting that the toroidal representation overestimates the lateral displacement under the tank wall, leading to exaggerated values of the bending moments at the upper parts of the end columns.
A reinforcement mat of ground nets was placed near the column heads within the earthen ramp, inhabiting the landing sector, but the use of a good quality burial neutralizes the role of the reinforcing layer
