Lateral push performance and ultimate-state safety of a pile-supported wharf with a localized defect: a finite element investigation

A localized defect in a pile-supported wharf under lateral push loading are found to critically compromise structural integrity, necessitating accurate assessment to inform maintenance decisions. This study investigated the effects of defect location and size on lateral push performance and ultimate-state safety through parametric finite element analysis. The load-displacement curves progressively diverged with increasing defect size, with the most pronounced divergence occurring under fracture propagation conditions, particularly in the backward batter pile. While a single defect reduced bending moments or shear forces within the compromised plumb pile itself, it concurrently triggered substantial load redistribution that generally amplified internal forces in adjacent piles; however, certain neighboring forward batter piles experienced reduced internal forces due to interactive load-sharing mechanisms. Then, a rapid assessment methodology incorporating a four-tier safety classification system (Grades A-D) was developed using ultimate-state safety analysis, which enabled efficient safety evaluation and supported targeted maintenance planning in wharf management.