Numerical modeling is a powerful tool used by geotechnical engineers to analyze the behavior of soil and rock, and structures. These models are beneficial to evaluate complex site conditions and load conditions such as earthquakes, deformations, and existing improvements. Geotechnical engineers create a computer model to predict how the ground and structure(s) will respond under different conditions. is the results are used by engineers to understand how the structure/ground will behave and design foundations, slopes, tunnels, dams, and other structures.  

Numerical modeling can be used to evaluate:  

• Staged Construction: Numerical models can evaluate the effects of construction sequences or operations (excavation, dewatering, showing installation, etc.). Each construction sequence can be evaluated and changes in the model (deformation, loads, and stresses) are calculated. These types of evaluations are valuable for designing and evaluating the impacts of construction (temporary shoring, excavation, loads, etc.) on sites or adjacent structures (tunnels, dams, bridges, etc.). 

• Complex Conditions: When structures and/or the subsurface have intricate shapes, like tunnels with varying diameters or foundations with irregular footprints, numerical modeling allows for a more realistic analysis compared to traditional calculations which often rely on simplifications. 

• Nonlinear behavior: Soil and rock don’t always behave elastically under stress. Numerical modeling can account for non-linear behavior, giving a more realistic picture of how the ground will respond to loading. 

• Seismic loads: Numerical modeling allows engineers to run simulations using earthquake time series. These evaluations can be used to better predict how structures and the ground will respond during large earthquakes.  

Benefits from numerical modeling include: 

• Deep excavations: More reliability with estimates of movements and impacts to nearby infrastructure.  

• Tunneling projects: Tunneling disrupts the natural equilibrium of the ground. Modeling can predict how the surrounding soil and rock will react to the excavation, allowing for design of safe and stable tunnels. 

• Seismic Response: Seismic response is complicated. Simplified ground motion evaluations only consider the ground. Numerical models can incorporate foundation elements such as deep foundations, slabs, and basement walls to better predict spectral accelerations, loads, and deformations of structures and ground. .  

• Slope stability and landslide mitigation: Numerical models can evaluate stability of slopes including embankments (levees and dams), and complex conditions (soil, groundwater, and retained water). Numerical modeling can help assess the risk of slope failure and design appropriate mitigation strategies. 

Understanding and predicting how the soil and Structures interact is crucial, and numerical modeling can provide more confidence with the design and construction of projects.