Application of Non-Reinforced Rigid Inclusion Columns as Foundation Support for Container Yard

Steel reinforced concrete piles have commonly been adopted as foundations to support container yards in Singapore. However, such a type of foundation causes great difficulties for demolition for future redevelopment. To overcome this problem, a new foundation type has been developed. Non-reinforced rigid inclusion columns together with T-beams are used to support a load transfer platform to provide bearing capacity and reduce settlements for the containers. The arching effect is created in the top sand fill to distribute the loads and control the deformation of the foundation. A conceptual design based on the new approach is proposed. An analytical method is established for the design of the proposed foundation. The key factors controlling the design are discussed. The performance of the proposed foundation is evaluated using 3D finite element analyses.