Three-dimensional finite element study of a single pile response to multidirectional lateral loadings incorporating the simplified state-dependent dilatancy model

Waves and winds can induce lateral loads on piles, which are often multidirectional. The objective of this study is to investigate the response of a single pile subjected to unidirectional and multidirectional lateral loadings using the finite element analysis program ABAQUS. A simplified version of the state-dependent dilatancy model was implemented and embedded into the program to simulate the behavior of the soil around the pile. The results of the analyses indicate that the lateral resistance of the pile along one horizontal direction under multidirectional loading is lower than that under unidirectional loading. The degree of reduction of the resistance increases with the aspect ratio of the displacement path at the pile head. The directions of the force increment vector and the displacement increment vector are generally non-coaxial under multidirectional loading. The soil-pile interaction and soil responses under multidirectional loading are also significantly different than those under unidirectional loading.