Review article

Currently, there exist three main methods for calculating foundation settlement: the method of linearly compressible layer (introduced by Prof. K. E. Egorov), the method of layer-by-layer summation (described in SP 22.13330.2016), and the method of one-dimension virgin compression (a special case of the equivalent layer method introduced by Prof. N. A. Tsytovich). All the above-mentioned methods for calculating foundation settlement are based on the linear dependence of deformations on stresses. The principal differences between these methods are in taking the account of natural soil stress from its own weight, the technique of assessing the compressible soil strata and evaluating the distribution of stress in depth from external pressure. In the practice of bases and foundations design, the layer-by-layer summation method is considered to be the most highly reputable and widely used. It should be noted that each method was initially developed to solve some specific problem. However, not every engineer at present knows the limits of a particular method application for calculating foundation deformation. The article presents calculations of the non-linear settlement development in the foundation performed by various methods. Comparison with actual deformations is made based on the results of long-term monitoring of foundation settlement of a well-known building in Saint Petersburg, and recommendations are offered regarding the applicability of the discussed methods.