Application of the finite element method for investigating the dynamic plate loading test

The dynamic plate loading test using the Light Falling Weight Deflectometer (LFWD) is an innovative and very simple method used for quick assessment of the field compaction quality. The basic outcome of the LFWD test is the dynamic resilience modulus of the tested soil. This paper concisely presents the state-of-the-art for the theory and applications of the LFWD test. Moreover, an attempt is made in this study to use the finite element method for simulating the LFWD test and investigating the consequent soil response. An axisymmetric model is established to simulate a realistic case study of in-situ LFWD test. Different soil models are examined for adequately simulating the soil performance, including linear elastic, Mohr-Coulomb and Hardening-Soil models. The finite element analysis is applied to investigate the factors that probably affect the LFWD results. Furthermore, an attempt to ascertain the influence depth of the LFWD is provided.