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7. VERTICAL STRESS INCREASE IN SOIL

Introduction

In many cases, the allowable settlement of a shallow foundation may control the
bearing capacity. The allowable settlement itself may be controlled by local building codes.
Thus, the allowable bearing capacity will be the smaller of the following conditions:

𝒒𝒖
𝑭𝑺
𝒒𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘
or
{𝒒𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕

For the calculation of foundation settlement, it is required that we estimate the vertical
stress increase in the soil mass due to the net load applied on the foundation. Hence, in this
chapter, we will discuss the general principles for estimating the increase of vertical stress at
various depths in soil due to the application of (on the ground surface). This includes a point
load; circularly loaded area, vertical line load, strip load, rectangularly loaded area, and an
embankment type of loading. Various procedures for estimating foundation settlement will be
discussed on the succeeding chapter.

Objectives

At the end of this lesson, you can:

a. demonstrate understanding on the change or increase in effective stress, ∆𝜎 due to applied
load;
b. calculate change or the increase in effective stress, ∆𝜎 due to a concentrated load using
the formula derived by Bossinesq;
c. demonstrate understanding on the derivation of formula for stress due to a circularly
loaded area;
d. calculate change or the increase in effective stress due to circularly loaded area;
e. apply a table for the variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 with 𝑟(𝐵/2) as parameters in evaluating ∆𝜎
under circularly loaded area;
f. calculate change or the increase in effective stress due to line load;

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g. apply a table for the variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 with 𝑥/𝑧 as parameters in evaluating ∆𝜎 under a
line load;
h. calculate change or the increase in effective stress below a vertical strip load with finite
width and infinite length;
i. apply a table for the variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 with 2𝑧/𝐵 and 2𝑥/𝐵 as parameters in evaluating
∆𝜎 under a vertical strip load with finite width and infinite length;
j. calculate change or the increase in effective stress below a rectangular area; both for
corner and center points;
k. apply a table for the variation of the influence factor 𝐼 with 𝑚 and 𝑛 as parameters in
evaluating ∆𝜎 under a rectangular area;
l. measure the approximate change or the increase in effective stress below a rectangular
area using the 2:1 method;
m. determine the average vertical stress increase due to a rectangularly loaded area using the
formula of Bossinesq and Griffins influence factor;
n. apply the Griffin’s influence factor graph in evaluating the average ∆𝜎 under a
rectangularly loaded area;
o. measure the approximate average change or the increase in effective stress below a
rectangular area using the concept of Simpson’s rule.

Topic Outline
4.1 Stress due to a Concentrated Load
4.2 Stress due to a Circularly Loaded Area
4.3 Stress due to Line Load
4.4 Stress below a Vertical Strip Load (Finite Width and Infinite Length)
4.5 Stress below a Rectangular Area
4.6 Average Vertical Stress Increase due to a Rectangularly Loaded Area

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Read and Ponder

7.1 STRESS DUE TO A CONCENTRATED LOAD

In 1885, Boussinesq developed the mathematical relationship for determining the normal and
shear stresses at any point inside homogeneous, elastic, and isotropic mediums due to a
concentrated point load located at the surface, as shown in Figure 7.1.

Figure 7.1 Vertical stress at a point A caused by a point load on the surface

According to this analysis, the vertical stress increase at point A caused by a point load of
magnitude P is given by

𝟑𝑷 7.1
∆𝝈 = 𝟓/𝟐
𝒓 𝟐
𝟐𝝅𝒛𝟐 [𝟏 + ( ) ]
𝒛

where: 𝑟 = √𝒙𝟐 + 𝒚𝟐
x, y, z = coordinates of the point A

7.2 STRESS DUE TO A CIRCULARLY LOADED AREA

The Boussinesq Eq. (7.1) can also be used to determine the vertical stress below the center of
a flexible circularly loaded are, as shown in Figure 7.2. Let the radius of the loaded area be
B/2, and let qo be the uniformly distributed load per unit area. To determine the stress
increase at a point A, located at a depth z below the center of the circular area, consider an
elemental area on the circle. The load on this elemental area may be taken to be a point load
and expressed as 𝒒𝒐 𝒓 𝒅𝜽 𝒅𝒓 .

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The stress increase at a caused by this load can be determined from 7.1 as,

𝟑(𝒒𝒐 𝒓 𝒅𝜽 𝒅𝒓 ) 7.2
𝒅𝝈 =
𝒓 𝟐 𝟓/𝟐
𝟐𝝅𝒛𝟐 [𝟏 + (𝒛) ]

Figure 7.2 Increase in pressure under a uniformly loaded flexible circular area

The total increase in stress caused by the entire loaded area may be obtained by integrating
Eq. (7.2) thus resulting to

7.3
𝟏
∆𝝈 = 𝒒𝒐 𝟏 − 𝟑/𝟐
𝑩 𝟐
[𝟏 + (𝟐𝒛) ]
{ }

Similar integration could be performed to obtain the vertical stress increase at A’, located at a
distance r from the center of the loaded area at a depth z. For vertical stress located at A’
Table 7.1 gives the variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 with 𝑟/(𝐵/2) and 𝑧/(𝐵/2) [for 0 ≤ 𝑟/(𝐵/2) ≤ 1].
Note that the variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 with depth at 𝑟/(𝐵/2) = 0 can be obtained from Eq. (7.3).

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Table 7.1 Variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 for a Uniformly Loaded Flexible Circular Area

7.3 STRESS DUE TO A LINE LOAD

Figure 7.3 shows a vertical flexible line load of infinite length that has an intensity q/unit
length on the surface of a semi-infinite soil mass. The vertical stress increase, ∆𝝈, inside the
soil mass can be determined by using the principles of the theory of elasticity, or

𝟐𝒒𝒛𝟑 7.4
∆𝝈 =
𝝅(𝒙𝟐 + 𝒛𝟐 )𝟐

Infinite length

Figure 7.3 Line load over the surface of a semi-infinite soil mass

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Eq. (7.3) can be rewritten as

𝟐𝒒
∆𝝈 = 𝟐
𝒙 𝟐
𝝅𝒛 [( 𝒛 ) + 𝟏]

∆𝝈 𝟐
= 𝟐
(𝒒/𝒛) 𝒙 𝟐 7.5
𝝅𝒛 [( 𝒛 ) + 𝟏]

Note that Eq. (7.5) is in a nondimensional form. Using this equation, we can calculate the
variation of ∆𝜎/(𝑞/𝑧) with x/z. This is given in Table 7.2. The value of ∆𝜎 calculated by
using Eq. (7.5) is the additional stress on soil caused by the line load. The value of ∆𝜎 does
not include the overburden pressure of the soil above point A.

Table 7.2 Variation of ∆𝜎/(𝑞/𝑧) with 𝑥/𝑧

STRESS BELOW A VERTICAL STRIP LOAD (FINITE WIDTH AND

7.4
INFINITE LENGTH)

The fundamental equation for the vertical stress increase at a point in a soil mass as the result
of a line load (Section 7.3) can be used to determine the vertical stress at a point caused by a
flexible strip load of width B. (See Figure 7.4) Let the load per unit area of the strip shown in
Figure 7.4 be equal to 𝑞𝑜 . If we consider an elemental strip of width dr, the load per unit
length of this strip is equal to 𝑞𝑜 dr. This elemental strip can be treated as a line load. Eq. (7.4)
gives the vertical stress increase 𝑑𝜎 at point A inside the soil mass caused by this elemental
strip load. To calculate the vertical stress increase, we need to substitute 𝑞𝑜 dr for q and (𝑥 −
𝑟) for x. So,

𝟐(𝒒𝒐 𝒅𝒓)𝒛𝟑
𝒅𝝈 = 7.6
𝝅[(𝒙 − 𝒓)𝟐 + 𝒛𝟐 ]𝟐

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Figure 7.4 Vertical Stress Caused by a Flexible Strip Load

The total increase in the vertical stress (∆𝜎) at point A caused by the entire strip load of width
B can be determined by integration of Eq. (7.6) with limits of r from −𝐵/2 to +𝐵/2, or
+𝐵/2
2𝑞 𝑧3
∆𝜎 = ∫ 𝑑𝜎 = ∫ ( ){ } 𝑑𝑟
−𝐵/2 𝜋 [(𝑥 − 𝑟)2 + 𝑧 2 ]2

𝑩𝟐
𝒒𝒐 𝒛 𝒛 𝑩𝒛 [𝒙𝟐 − 𝒛𝟐 − ( 𝟒 )]
∆𝝈 = 𝐭𝐚𝐧−𝟏 [ ] − 𝐭𝐚𝐧−𝟏 [ ]− 7.7
𝝅 𝑩 𝑩 𝑩𝟐
𝟐
𝒙 − (𝟐 ) 𝒙 + (𝟐 ) [𝒙𝟐 + 𝒛𝟐 − ( 𝟒 )] + 𝑩𝟐 𝒛𝟐
{ }

With respect to Eq. (7.7), the following should be kept in mind:

𝑧 𝑧
1. tan−1 [ ] and − tan−1 [ ] are in radians
𝐵 𝐵
𝑥 − (2) 𝑥 + (2)

2. Eq. (7.7) is valid as shown in Figure 7.4; that is, for point A, 𝑥 ≥ 𝐵/2
𝑧
However, for 𝑥 = 0 to 𝑥 < 𝐵/2, the magnitude of tan−1 [ ] becomes negative
𝐵
𝑥 − (2)

𝒛
For this case, that should be replaced by 𝝅 + 𝐭𝐚𝐧−𝟏 [ 𝑩
]
𝒙−( )
𝟐

Table 7.3 shows the variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 with 2𝑧/𝐵 and 2𝑥/𝐵. This table can be used
conveniently for the calculation of vertical stress at a point caused by a flexible strip load.

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Table 7.3 Variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 with 2𝑧/𝐵 and 2𝑥/𝐵 [Eq. (7.7)]

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Table 7.3 Variation of ∆𝜎/𝑞𝑜 with 2𝑧/𝐵 and 2𝑥/𝐵 [Eq. (7.7)] (Continued)

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Example 7.1

Refer to Figure 7.5. Given: 𝐵 = 4 m and 𝑞𝑜 = 100 kN/m2 . For point A, 𝑧 = 1 m and 𝑥 =
1 m. Determine the vertical stress ∆𝜎 at A. Use Eq. (7.7).

𝑞𝑜

Figure 7.5

SOLUTION:

STEP 1. For stress below a vertical strip load with finite width & infinite length use Eq. (7.7)
𝐵2
𝑞𝑜 𝑧 𝑧 𝐵𝑧 [𝑥 2 − 𝑧 2 − ( 4 )]
∆𝜎 = tan−1 [ ] − tan−1 [ ]−
𝜋 𝐵 𝐵 2 2
𝑥 − (2) 𝑥 + (2) [𝑥 2 + 𝑧 2 − (𝐵 )] + 𝐵2 𝑧 2
{ 4 }

However, for 𝑥 = 1, which is to 𝑥 < 𝐵/2, hence the term:

𝑧 𝑧
tan−1 [ ] should be replaced by 𝜋 + tan−1 [ ]
𝐵 𝐵
𝑥 − (2) 𝑥 − (2)
Hence,
𝑩𝟐
𝒒𝒐 𝒛 𝒛 𝑩𝒛 [𝒙𝟐 − 𝒛𝟐 − ( 𝟒 )]
∆𝝈 = 𝝅 + 𝐭𝐚𝐧−𝟏 [ ] − 𝐭𝐚𝐧−𝟏 [ ]−
𝝅 𝑩 𝑩 𝑩𝟐
𝟐
𝒙 − (𝟐 ) 𝒙 + (𝟐 ) [𝒙𝟐 + 𝒛𝟐 − ( 𝟒 )] + 𝑩𝟐 𝒛𝟐
{ }

STEP 2. Evaluate ∆𝜎 using the above equation,

Since, 𝐵 = 4m, 𝑧 = 1 m, 𝑥 = 1m and 𝑞𝑜 = 100kN/m2

42
100 1 1 4(1) [12 − 12 − ( 4 )]
∆𝜎 = 𝜋 + tan−1 [ ] − tan−1 [ ]−
𝜋 4 4 42
2
1 − (2) 1 + (2) [1 + 1 − ( 4 )] + (42 )(12 )}
2 2
{

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100
∆𝜎 = {𝜋 − 0.785 − 0.322 − (−0.80)}
𝜋

∆𝝈 = 𝟗𝟎. 𝟐𝟑 𝐤𝐍/𝐦𝟐
____________________Ans.

Alternative Solution
STEP 3. Using Table 7.3

2𝑥 2(1) 2𝑧 2(1)
= = 0.50 and = = 0.50
𝐵 4 𝐵 4

So,
∆𝜎
= 0.902
𝑞𝑜
∆𝜎 = 0.902𝑞𝑜 = 0.902(100)

∆𝝈 = 𝟗𝟎. 𝟐𝟎 𝐤𝐍/𝐦𝟐
____________________Ans.

7.5 STRESS BELOW A RECTANGULAR AREA

The integration technique of Boussinesq’s equation also allows the vertical stress at any point
A below the corner of a flexible rectangular loaded area to be evaluated. (See Figure 7.6). To
do so, consider an elementary area 𝑑𝐴 = 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦 on the flexible loaded area. If the load per
unit area is 𝑞𝑜 , the total load on the elemental area is

𝒅𝑷 = 𝒒𝒐 𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒚

This elemental load, dP, may be treated as a point load. The increase in vertical stress at point
A caused by dP may be evaluated using Eq. (7.1). Thus,

3𝑑𝑃 3(𝑞𝑜 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦)

𝑑𝜎 = 5/2
= 5/2
𝑟 2 𝑥2 + 𝑦2
2𝜋𝑧 2 [1 + (𝑧) ] 2𝜋𝑧 2 [1 + ]
𝑧2

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Figure 7.6 Determination of stress below the corner of a flexible rectangular loaded area

The total stress increase caused by the entire loaded area at point A may now be obtained by
integrating the preceding equation:
𝑳 𝑩
𝟑𝒒𝒐 (𝒅𝒙 𝒅𝒚) 𝒛𝟑
∆𝝈 = ∫ ∫ 7.8
𝒚=𝟎 𝒙=𝟎 𝟐𝝅(𝒙𝟐 + 𝒚𝟐 + 𝒛𝟐 )𝟓/𝟐

∆𝝈 = 𝒒𝒐 𝑰 7.9
where: 𝐼 = influence factor
1 2𝑚𝑛√𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 1 𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 2
𝐼= [ ∙
4𝜋 𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 𝑚2 𝑛2 + 1 𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 1
2𝑚𝑛√𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 1 7.10
+ tan−1 ( 2 )]
𝑚 + 𝑛2 − 𝑚 2 𝑛2 + 1

Note: (arctan is in radians)

𝐵 𝐿 7.11 a,b
then: 𝑚= and 𝑛 =
𝑧 𝑧

The arctangent term in Eq. (7.10) must be a positive angle in radians. When 𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 1 <
𝑚2 𝑛2 , it becomes a negative angle. So a term 𝜋 should be added to that angle. The variations
of the influence values with m and n are given in Table 7.4.

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Table 7.4 Variation of Influence Value I [Eq.7.10]

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Table 7.4 (contd) Variation of Influence Value I [Eq.7.10]

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The stress increase at any point below a rectangular loaded area can also be found by using
Eq. (7.9) in conjunction with Figure 7.7.

Figure 7.7 Stress below any point of a loaded flexible rectangular area

To determine the stress at a depth z below point O, divide the loaded area into four
rectangles, with O the corner common to each. Then use Eq. (7.9) to calculate the increase in
stress at a depth z below O caused by each rectangular area. The total stress increase caused
by the entire loaded area may now be expressed as

∆𝝈 = 𝒒𝒐 (𝑰𝟏 + 𝑰𝟐 + 𝑰𝟑 + 𝑰𝟒 ) 7.12

where: 𝐼1 , 𝐼2 , 𝐼3 and 𝐼4 = the influence values of rectangles 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively.

In most cases, the vertical stress below the center of a rectangular area is of importance. This
can be given by the relationship,

∆𝝈 = 𝒒𝒐 𝑰𝒄 7.13

2 𝑚1 𝑛1 1 + 𝑚12 + 2𝑛12
where: 𝐼𝑐 = [ ∙
𝜋 √1 + 𝑚2 + 𝑛2 (1 + 𝑛12 )(𝑚12 + 𝑛12 )
1 1
7.14
𝑚1
+ sin−1 ( )]
√𝑚12 + 𝑛12 √1 + 𝑛12

Note: (arcsin is in radians)

𝐿 𝑧
then: 𝑚1 = and 𝑛1 =
𝐵 𝐵
(2)

The variation of 𝐼𝑐 with 𝑚1 and 𝑛1 is given in Table 7.5.

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Table 7.5 Variation of 𝐼𝑐 with 𝑚1 and 𝑛1 I [Eq.7.147.10]

Foundation engineers often use an approximate method to determine the increase in stress
with depth caused by the construction of a foundation. The method is referred to as the 2:1
method. (See Figure 7.8). According to this method, the increase in stress at depth z is,

𝒒𝒐 × 𝑩 × 𝑳
∆𝝈 = 7.15
(𝑩 + 𝒛)(𝑳 + 𝒛)

Figure 7.8 2:1 Method of finding stress increase under a foundation

Note that Eq. (7.15) is based on the assumption that the stress from the foundation spreads
out along lines with a vertical-to-horizontal slope of 2:1.

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Example 7.2

A flexible rectangular area measures 2.5 m x 5 m in plan. It supports a load of 150 kN/m2.
Determine the vertical stress increase due to the load at a depth of 6.25 m below the center of
the rectangular area.
𝐿 = 5m

𝐵 = 2.5 m
Figure 7.9

Solution:
Step 1. Refer to Figure 7.9, then evaluate 𝐵1 , 𝐵2 , 𝐿1 and 𝐿2
2.5 m
𝐵1 = 𝐵2 = = 1.25 m
2
5m
𝐿1 = 𝐿2 = = 2.5 m
2
Step 2. The location of the change in stress is not at the corner of a rectangular area, hence,
use Eq. (7.12)

∆𝜎 = 𝑞𝑜 (𝐼1 + 𝐼2 + 𝐼3 + 𝐼4 )
considering: 𝐵1 = 𝐵2 and 𝐿1 = 𝐿2
∴ 𝐼 = 𝐼1 = 𝐼2 = 𝐼3 = 𝐼4
∆𝝈 = 𝒒𝒐 (𝟒𝑰)

Step 3. Evaluate the parameters m and n for Eq. (7.10)

𝐵1 1.25 𝐿1 2.5
𝑚= = = 0.20 and 𝑛= = = 0.40
𝑧 6.25 𝑧 6.25
Step 4. Using Eq. (7.10),

1 2𝑚𝑛√𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 1 𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 2 −1
2𝑚𝑛√𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 1
𝐼= [ 2 ∙ + tan ( )]
4𝜋 𝑚 + 𝑛2 + 𝑚2 𝑛2 + 1 𝑚2 + 𝑛2 + 1 𝑚 2 + 𝑛2 − 𝑚 2 𝑛2 + 1

or from Table 7.4,

𝑰 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟑𝟐𝟖

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Step 5. Solving for the change/increase in effective stress

∆𝜎 = 𝑞𝑜 (4𝐼)
∆𝜎 = 150(4 × 0.0328)

∆𝝈 = 𝟏𝟗. 𝟔𝟖 𝐤𝐍/𝐦𝟐
____________________Ans.

Alternate Solution:
Step 2’. The location of the change in stress at the center of the rectangular area, hence, use
Eq. (7.13)
∆𝝈 = 𝒒𝒐 𝑰𝒄

Step 3’. Evaluate the parameters 𝑚1 and 𝑛1 for Eq. ()

𝐿 5 𝑧 6.25
𝑚1 = = =2 and 𝑛1 = = =5
𝐵 2.5 𝐵 2.5
(2) ( )
2
Step 4’. Using Eq. (7.14),

2 𝑚1 𝑛1 1 + 𝑚12 + 2𝑛12 𝑚1
𝐼𝑐 = [ ∙ 2 2 2 + sin−1 ( )]
𝜋 √1 + 𝑚12 + 𝑛12 (1 + 𝑛1 )(𝑚1 + 𝑛1 ) √𝑚12 + 𝑛12 √1 + 𝑛12

or from Table 7.5,

𝑰 = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟑𝟏

Step 5’. Solving for the change/increase in effective stress

∆𝜎 = 𝑞𝑜 𝐼𝑐
∆𝜎 = 150(0.131)

∆𝝈 = 𝟏𝟗. 𝟔𝟓 𝐤𝐍/𝐦𝟐
____________________Ans.

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AVERAGE VERTICAL STRESS INCREASE DUE TO A RECTANGULARLY

7.6
LOADED AREA

In the previous section, the total vertical stress increase ∆𝜎 below the corner of a uniformly
loaded rectangular area was ascertained as
∆𝝈 = 𝒒𝒐 𝑰
In many cases, one must find the average stress increase, ∆𝝈𝐚𝐯 , below the corner of a
uniformly loaded rectangular area with limits of 𝑧 = 0 and 𝑧 = 𝐻, as shown in Figure 7.10.
This can be evaluated as

1 𝐻
∆𝜎av = ∫ (𝑞 𝐼)𝑑𝑧 7.16
𝐻 𝑜 𝑜

∆𝝈𝐚𝐯 = 𝒒𝒐 𝑰𝒂 7.17

where: 𝐼𝑎 = 𝑓(𝑚2 , 𝑛2 ) 7.18

𝐵 𝐿 7.19 a,b
𝑚2 = , 𝑛2 =
𝐻 𝐻

Figure 7.10 Average vertical stress increase due to a rectangularly loaded

The variation of 𝑰𝒂 with 𝒎𝟐 and 𝒏𝟐 is shown in Figure 7.11, as proposed by Griffiths (1984)

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Figure 7.11 Griffiths’ influence factor 𝐼𝑎

Figure 7.12 Average pressure increase between 𝑧 = 𝐻1 and 𝑧 = 𝐻2 below the corner of a
uniformly loaded rectangular area

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In estimating the consolidation settlement under a foundation, it may be required to determine

the average vertical stress increase in only given layer – that is, between 𝑧 = 𝐻1 and 𝑧 =
𝐻2 , as shown in Figure 7.12. This can be done as (Griffiths, 1984)

𝑯𝟐 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟐 ) − 𝑯𝟏 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟏 )
∆𝝈𝐚𝐯(𝑯𝟐 /𝑯𝟏 ) = 𝒒𝒐 [ ] 7.20
𝑯𝟐 − 𝑯 𝟏

where: ∆𝜎av(𝐻2 /𝐻1 ) = average stress increase immediately below the corner
of a uniformly loaded rectangular area between
depth 𝑧 = 𝐻1 and 𝑧 = 𝐻2

𝐼𝑎(𝐻2) 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐼𝑎 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑧 = 0 𝑡𝑜 𝐻2

𝐼𝑎(𝐻2) = 𝑓(𝑚2 , 𝑛2 )
7.21
𝐵 𝐿
𝑚2 = and 𝑛2 =
𝐻2 𝐻2
𝐼𝑎(𝐻1) 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐼𝑎 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑧 = 0 𝑡𝑜 𝐻1
𝐼𝑎(𝐻1) = 𝑓(𝑚2 , 𝑛2 )
7.22
𝐵 𝐿
𝑚2 = and 𝑛2 =
𝐻1 𝐻1

In most practical cases, however, we will need to determine the average stress increase
between 𝑧 = 𝐻1 and 𝑧 = 𝐻2 below the center of a loaded area. The procedure for doing this
can be explained with reference to Figure 7.13, which shows the plan of a loaded area
measuring 𝐿 × 𝐵. The loaded area can be divided into four rectangular areas measuring
𝐿′ × 𝐵′ (Note: 𝐵 ′ = 𝐵/2 and 𝐿′ = 𝐿/2), and the point O is the common corner for each of the
four rectangles.

Figure 7.13 Average stress increase calculation below a flexible loaded rectangular area

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The average stress increase below O between 𝑧 = 𝐻1 to 𝐻2 due to each loaded area then can
be given by Eq. (7.20)

𝑯𝟐 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟐 ) − 𝑯𝟏 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟏 )
∆𝝈𝐚𝐯(𝑯𝟐 /𝑯𝟏 ) = 𝒒𝒐 [ ] [7.20]
𝑯𝟐 − 𝑯 𝟏

𝐼𝑎(𝐻2) 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐼𝑎 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑧 = 0 𝑡𝑜 𝐻2

𝐼𝑎(𝐻2) = 𝑓(𝑚2 , 𝑛2 )
7.23
𝐵′ 𝐿′
𝑚2 = and 𝑛2 =
𝐻2 𝐻2
𝐼𝑎(𝐻1) 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐼𝑎 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑧 = 0 𝑡𝑜 𝐻1
𝐼𝑎(𝐻1) = 𝑓(𝑚2 , 𝑛2 )
7.24
𝐵′ 𝐿′
𝑚2 = and 𝑛2 =
𝐻1 𝐻1

Now the total average stress increase due to the four loaded areas (each measuring 𝐿′ × 𝐵′)
between 𝑧 = 𝐻1 to 𝐻2 can be given as

𝑯𝟐 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟐 ) − 𝑯𝟏 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟏 )
∆𝝈𝐚𝐯(𝑯𝟐 /𝑯𝟏 ) = 𝟒𝒒𝒐 [ ] 7.25
𝑯𝟐 − 𝑯 𝟏

with, 𝐼𝑎(𝐻2) is from Eq. (7.23)

𝐼𝑎(𝐻1) is from Eq. (7.24)

Another approximate procedure to determine ∆𝜎av(𝐻2 /𝐻1 ) is to use the relationship,

∆𝝈𝒕 + 𝟒∆𝝈𝒎 + ∆𝝈𝒃

∆𝝈𝐚𝐯(𝑯𝟐 /𝑯𝟏 ) = 7.26
𝟔

where ∆𝜎𝑡 , ∆𝜎𝑚 , ∆𝜎𝑏 = stress increase below the center of the loaded area (𝐿 × 𝐵),
respectively, at depths 𝑧 = 𝐻1, 𝑧 = 𝐻1 + (𝐻2 − 𝐻1 )/2 and 𝑧 = 𝐻2 . The magnitudes of
∆𝜎𝑡 , ∆𝜎𝑚 , and ∆𝜎𝑏 can be obtained by using Eq. (7.13) (see Table 7.5).

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Example 7.3

Refer to Figure 7.14. Determine the average stress increase below the center of the loaded
area between 𝑧 = 3 m to 𝑧 = 5 m (that is, between points 𝐴 and 𝐴’)

Figure 7.14

Solution:
Step 1. The loaded area can be divided into four rectangular areas, each measuring 1.5 m ×
1.5 m (𝐿′ × 𝐵′). Using Eq. (7.25), the average stress increase (between the required
depths) below the center of the entire loaded area can be given as

𝑯𝟐 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟐 ) − 𝑯𝟏 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟏 )
∆𝝈𝐚𝐯(𝑯𝟐 /𝑯𝟏 ) = 𝟒𝒒𝒐 [ ]
𝑯𝟐 − 𝑯 𝟏

with, 𝐻2 = 5 m and 𝐻1 = 3 m

Step 2. Evaluating, 𝐼𝑎(𝐻2) and 𝐼𝑎(𝐻1) from Eqs. (7.23) and (7.24) and Figure 7.11

𝐵′ 1. 5 m
For 𝐼𝑎(𝐻2) 𝑚2 = = = 0.30
𝐻2 5m
𝐿′ 1. 5 m
𝑛2 = = = 0.30
𝐻2 5m

𝐵′ 1. 5 m
For 𝐼𝑎(𝐻1) 𝑚2 = = = 0.50
𝐻1 3m
𝐿′ 1. 5 m
𝑛2 = = = 0.50
𝐻1 3m

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Referring to Figure 7.11

𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟏)

𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟐)

Hence, 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟐 ) = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟐𝟔 and 𝑰𝒂(𝑯𝟏 ) = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟕𝟓

Step 3. Determine the average stress increase below the center of the loaded area.

𝐻2 𝐼𝑎(𝐻2 ) − 𝐻1 𝐼𝑎(𝐻1 )
∆𝜎av(𝐻2 /𝐻1) = 4𝑞𝑜 [ ]
𝐻2 − 𝐻1

(5)(0.126) − (3)(0.175)
∆𝜎av(𝐻2 /𝐻1) = 4(100) [ ]
5−3
∆𝜎av(𝐻2 /𝐻1) = 4 × 5.25 kN/m2

𝟐
∆𝝈 𝐚𝐯(𝑯𝟐 /𝑯𝟏 ) = 𝟐𝟏 𝐤𝐍/𝐦
_______________________Ans.

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Example 7.4

Solve Example 7.3 using Eq. (7.26)

Refer to Figure 7.15. Determine the average stress increase below the center of the loaded
area between 𝑧 = 3 m to 𝑧 = 5 m (that is, between points 𝐴 and 𝐴’)

Figure 7.15

Solution:
Step 1. Establish Eq. (7.26)

∆𝜎𝑡 + 4∆𝜎𝑚 + ∆𝜎𝑏

∆𝜎av(𝐻2 /𝐻1) = [7.26]
6
𝑧𝑡 = 𝐻1 = 3 m
𝑧𝑏 = 𝐻2 = 5 m
𝐻2 − 𝐻1 5−2
𝑧𝑚 = 𝐻1 + ( )= 3+( )=4m
2 2

Step 2. Using Eqs. (7.13), (7.14) and Table 7.5 to evaluate ∆𝜎,

∆𝝈 = 𝒒𝒐 𝑰𝒄 [7.13]
2 𝑚1 𝑛1 1 + 𝑚12 + 2𝑛12
where: 𝐼𝑐 = [ ∙
𝜋 √1 + 𝑚12 + 𝑛12 (1 + 𝑛12 )(𝑚12 + 𝑛12 )
[7.14]
𝑚1
+ sin−1 ( )]
√𝑚12 + 𝑛12 √1 + 𝑛12

Note: (arcsin is in radius)

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𝐿 𝑧
then: 𝑚1 = and 𝑛1 =
𝐵 𝐵
(2)

Step 3. Evaluate 𝐼𝑐 for 𝑧𝑡 , 𝑧𝑚 , and 𝑧𝑏

𝑧𝑡 3
𝐿 3 𝑛1 = = = 2.00
For 𝑧𝑡 : 𝑚1 = = = 1 and 𝐵 3
𝐵 3 (2) ( )
2

from Table 7.5 𝑰𝒄 = 𝟎. 𝟑𝟑𝟔

𝑧𝑚 4
𝐿 3 𝑛1 = = = 2.67
For 𝑧𝑚 : 𝑚1 = = = 1 and 𝐵 3
𝐵 3 (2) ( )
2

from Table 7.5 𝑰𝒄 = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟑𝟏

𝐿 3 𝑧𝑚 5
For 𝑧𝑏 : 𝑚1 = = =1 and 𝑛1 = = = 3.33
𝐵 3
𝐵 3 (2) ( )
2

from Table 7.5 𝑰𝒄 = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟓𝟓

Step 4. Calculate ∆𝜎 for 𝑧𝑡 , 𝑧𝑚 , and 𝑧𝑏

∆𝜎𝑡 = 𝑞𝑜 𝐼𝑐 = 100(0.336)
∆𝝈𝒕 = 𝟑𝟑. 𝟔 𝐤𝐍/𝐦𝟐

∆𝜎𝑚 = 𝑞𝑜 𝐼𝑐 = 100(0.231)
∆𝝈𝒎 = 𝟐𝟑. 𝟏 𝐤𝐍/𝐦𝟐

∆𝜎𝑏 = 𝑞𝑜 𝐼𝑐 = 100(0.155)
∆𝝈𝒃 = 𝟏𝟓. 𝟓 𝐤𝐍/𝐦𝟐

Step 5. Calculate the average stress increase using Eq. (7.26)

∆𝜎𝑡 + 4∆𝜎𝑚 + ∆𝜎𝑏

∆𝜎av(𝐻2 /𝐻1) = [7.26]
6
33.6 + 4(23.1) + 15.5
∆𝜎av(𝐻2 /𝐻1) =
6

𝟐
∆𝝈 𝐚𝐯(𝑯𝟐 /𝑯𝟏 ) = 𝟐𝟑. 𝟓𝟖 𝐤𝐍/𝐦
___________________________Ans.

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