Webinar: Fundamentals of PT Slab-on-Ground Design - Geotechnical-Webinar: Fundamentals of PT Slab-on-Ground Design

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a recent Post-Tensioning Institute webinar, moderator Kyle Boyd introduced the monthly session, emphasizing the focus on geotechnical aspects of slab on ground foundations in expansive soils. Dean Reed, a speaker with over 30 years of experience, delved into the principles behind the PTI method, exploring soil-structure interaction and unsaturated soil mechanics. The presentation distinguished between expansive, stable, and compressible soils, stressing that expansive soils change in volume with moisture alterations. Reed explained key concepts like Y sub m and E sub m, essential for estimating soil volume changes impacting foundation design. He clarified misconceptions, noting PTI does not require soil suction testing, and introduced suction envelopes used to model soil behavior under varying climatic conditions. Moreover, the session touched on the PTI stress change factor method for simplifying design calculations. Upcoming webinars will further elaborate on slab design and address other industry topics such as the impact of electric vehicle weights on parking structures and evaluating existing post-tension structures. During the Q&A, Reed responded to inquiries about the derivation of coefficients and the implications of choosing between ribbed and flat slabs in design.

Keywords

Post-Tensioning Institute

webinar

slab on ground foundations

expansive soils

soil-structure interaction

unsaturated soil mechanics

PTI method

suction envelopes

foundation design