2024-11-08 15:05:00
Geotechnical engineering, essential for the stability of deep foundations, has been the subject of studies and research that highlight the importance of rigorous soil analysis in infrastructure projects. According to information obtained in an article published by the Knowledge Center, failures in deep foundations can represent anything from an increase in the cost of the work, to structural collapse. Typically, these failures are attributed to soil-structure interaction problems, which could be avoided, according to the research, in case of prior investigation. This type of failure directly impacts safety, with risks ranging from structural damage to complete collapse of the work, especially in regions subject to lateral forces such as intense winds and seismic activities.
Researcher and businessman Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa, associated with the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) and director of Gotardi Engenharia Ltda., states that “this methodology seeks to revolutionize the area of deep foundations in geotechnical engineering. The work offers a new approach that allows us to accurately estimate the cost and performance of foundations, bringing advances in terms of safety and efficiency in projects.”
Eliomar’s methodology is based on tests that involve the application of horizontal loads at the top of piles, enabling a detailed and early analysis of real soil and structure conditions. “With this technique, we were able to predict the behavior of the foundation with greater precision and adapt the project to meet the specific requirements of each terrain”, explains the researcher. “This is essential in works such as bridges and transmission towers, where lateral forces are constant and require extra care.”
The researcher highlights that, by optimizing the use of resources and anticipating possible difficulties, his methodology brings significant financial and operational benefits to companies in the sector. “With this predictability, it is possible to reduce costs and avoid surprises that delay the schedule and burden the project”, he comments. “We are dealing with geotechnical engineering in a strategic way, not just a technical one, which opens up new possibilities for the sector.”
“This new approach has a direct impact on the industry, benefiting geotechnical engineering companies with greater operational efficiency and financial predictability. The possibility of previously simulating soil conditions and types of foundation allows a precise choice of the most appropriate solution for each project, minimizing waste and structural risks. The idea is that companies can better plan the budget and schedule of works, avoiding waste of materials and reducing the risk of accidents”, explains Eliomar.
The research also advances scientific knowledge, offering a new standard for foundation analysis. Developed in partnership with the State University of Campinas (Unicamp), the methodology combines advanced mathematical techniques with experimental tests, being validated through simulations in specialized software. “It’s a new way of thinking about geotechnics, combining science and practice to get the best of both worlds”, points out the researcher.
With this contribution, Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa seeks to consolidate himself in the sector, both in Brazil and internationally. “Our methodology seeks to place geotechnical engineering on a new level, combining precision, safety and efficiency, and establishing a new standard of excellence for the future of deep foundations”, concludes researcher Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa.
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**Interview with Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa on Advances in Deep Foundations Engineering**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Eliomar. Your work at Gotardi Engenharia and your research at UFRJ have received attention for reshaping our approach to deep foundations. Can you start by explaining why deep foundations are crucial for infrastructure?
**Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa:** Absolutely, thank you for having me. Deep foundations come into play when the surface soils aren’t capable of supporting the imposed loads of structures. This is particularly important in areas with weak soils or where heavy structures such as bridges and transmission towers are involved. If we overlook the need for deep foundations, we risk structural failures that can be catastrophic.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned structural failures. What are some common issues that arise with deep foundations?
**Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa:** Indeed, failures can stem from various factors, most notably soil-structure interaction problems. When we don’t conduct thorough preliminary investigations of the soil, we cannot accurately predict how it will interact with the structure. This oversight can lead to increased costs, delays, or even structural collapse. Substantial lateral forces, like those from intense winds or seismic activity, exacerbate these issues.
**Interviewer:** Your methodology for analyzing deep foundations employs innovative techniques involving horizontal load testing. How does this improve safety and project outcomes?
**Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa:** My approach allows for early and detailed assessments of real conditions at the site. By applying horizontal loads at the top of piles, we gain insights into how the foundation will respond in various scenarios. This leads to more accurate predictions of the foundation’s behavior, enabling us to tailor the design to meet the specific requirements of each location. This is particularly crucial for structures exposed to lateral forces.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like your methodology brings significant benefits. What advantages does this offer to construction companies?
**Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa:** The primary benefit is resource optimization. By accurately predicting foundation performance, we can reduce unexpected costs and avoid delays. This increased predictability leads to financial savings and smoother project execution. Ultimately, we enhance safety, which is the top priority in engineering.
**Interviewer:** Looking towards the future, what are your hopes for the field of geotechnical engineering and deep foundations?
**Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa:** I hope to see more widespread adoption of rigorous soil analysis techniques and advanced methodologies in the industry. By doing so, we can enhance safety and efficiency, allowing for the construction of more resilient infrastructures. As we face increasing environmental challenges, it’s essential that engineering continuously evolves to meet these demands.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Eliomar, for sharing your insights and innovations in deep foundations. It’s clear that your work is paving the way for safer and more efficient infrastructure projects.
**Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss these important advancements in our field.
