5.1 Introduction to Part 5

This Part is focused on applications of the theory of bearing capacity of shallow foundations i.e., footings which embedment depth is generally smaller than their plan view dimensions. Theoretical derivation of bearing capacity formulas for shallow footings is compendiously presented here, as it is covered in more detail in other textbooks. Emphasis of this Part is on design aspects viz. use of methods to design shallow foundations at the Ultimate Limit State together with Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) concept inscribed in Australian Standards; practical considerations regarding modelling of the stress-strain behaviour of soils; analytical and numerical methods for predicting the collapse load of footings for common practical cases, based on laboratory and in situ test results.