Abstract: Thus, this research project aims to investigate the response of plate anchor foundations subjected to cyclic loading in sands. In addition, it is aimed to develop analytical and numerical models for predicting the effects of cyclic loading on the foundation capacity. The consideration of the strength gain effects due to cyclic loading would allow for more optimal and economic foundation design solutions for offshore applications. This project falls within the EPSRC "Engineering" research area, within the context of the "Energy and Decarbonisation" theme.

For this project, a series of laboratory tests will be carried out to investigate the behaviour of plate foundation models under loading-unloading cycles in saturated sand. The foundation models will be subjected to cyclic loading with different frequencies and magnitudes. The effects of the loading characteristics on the foundation capacity and behaviour will be analysed and quantified. Based on the analysed mechanism behind the foundation behaviour after cyclic loading, an original analytical model will be suggested for the prediction of the post-cyclic monotonic capacity. In addition, three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) will be carried out for the numerical simulation and parametric studies on the foundation behaviour. Based on the results of the parametric studies, optimal design parameter values would be suggested for the maximisation of the post-cyclic foundation capacity. Finally, a general design framework for plate foundations of OWTs will be newly suggested by incorporating the developed analytical models for estimating the post-cyclic monotonic capacity or the FEA model.