Abstract: In this paper the results of a series of finite element analyses carried out to investigate the improvement in bearing capacity of a strip footing resting on a weak clayey soil with voids due to the addition of a Reinforced Foundation Bed are presented. The results of finite element analyses are validated by carrying out laboratory scale load tests. From the results of finite element analyses it is seen that the effect of void is considerable only when it is located within a critical depth and critical eccentricity. The critical eccentricity is found to reduce with depth of void from the base of footing. It is observed that the addition of Foundation Bed (FB) and Reinforced Foundation Bed (RFB) significantly improves the load-settlement behaviour. It is also observed that there is considerable stress concentration near the underground void.

Keywords: Underground void, Reinforced Foundation Bed, Finite Element Analyses, Stress Concentration.