Strain Path Method

The Strain Path Method provides an integrated and systematic framework for elucidating and predicting pile foundation behavior, interpreting in situ tests, assessing sampling disturbance effects and, in general, approaching “deep geotechnical problems” in a consistent and rational manner. This article describes the fundamentals of the method and presents solutions for the effects of quasi‐static undrained penetration of piles, cones and samplers on the deformations and strains in saturated isotropic clays. Procedures to determine penetration stresses and pore pressures and extensions of these solutions in an approximate form to more realistic conditions (e.g., anisotropic clays and drained penetration in sands) by means of the Strain Path Method are outlined. Estimates of undrained soil distortions due to sampler penetration indicate the necessity of reevaluating standard sampling and laboratory testing procedures utilized at present to estimate the in situ behavior of foundation soils, especially in the cases of soft clay deposits.