In typical analysis of soil-structure interaction, complete bond is assumed between different soil zones as well as between soil and embedded structure. However, relative movements between soil and the embedded structure are expected at the soil-structure interface. Also, relative movements between different soil zones are expected at their common interface.

Elasticity solutions provide ideal simulation for two cases of soil-structure interface conditions. The first considers full bond between the structure and the adjacent soil and the second assumes completely frictionless interface between the structure and the adjacent soil. The limitations of elasticity solutions do not allow for more general consideration of interface problems. The finite element method has been used extensively in soil-structure interaction analysis. Engineering literature contains many interface elements developed in the context of the finite element formulations.

In this study, a simple contact-friction interface element used in plane strain analysis is adopted. The development of the considered element is generalised to be applicable for three dimensional finite element analysis . The development depends on the constraint approach and the principle of virtual work. The interface element is presented in a simple form to be implemented in three dimensional finite element computer programs. An application example is investigated and proved the importance of considering the interface condition either between different soil zones or between soil and embedded structure . Results show that considering the relative movements between soil zones or between soil and structure may increase significantly the deformations and the internal forces in the embedded structure.

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