A technique frequently used by structural engineers for indicating ultimate limit state mechanisms in complex structures is known as pushover analysis. This is done with structural analysis software which is able to model not only elastic behaviour of structural elements but also nonlinear stiffness and failure of the elements. The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to some useful sets of equations which can represent the nonlinear lateral load behaviour of piles embedded in gravels, sands, and clays. The particular example presented is the pushover analysis of a wharf structure having vertical piles embedded in sandy gravel.
NZGS Symposium