General Eurocode 2 Method Applied to Concrete Piles: Managing Second-Order Effects, Stresses, and Displacements

This article presents a nonlinear EC2-type approach (§5.7) for the design of a single pile under lateral loads.

The analysis of an isolated pile under lateral load is a common use case, usually treated as elastoplastic on the soil side and linear elastic on the pile side. The subject can also be seen as the analysis of a slender reinforced concrete column with intermediate elastic supports.

Once the soil behaviour and, in particular, the plastification depth are determined, this approach allows for an accurate assessment of second‑order effects, SLS and ULS stress criteria, and deformations, relying on the full EC2 framework.

This article presents the benefits of a nonlinear approach for the analysis of reinforced concrete line elements, intended to determine the unique solution of the mechanical problem — when it exists — by enforcing flexural and axial deformation compatibility at every point along the member.

Inspired by the General Method and fully covered by Eurocode 2, this approach, referred to as the “Integral General Method” or IGM, opens up possibilities for analysing and optimising many common situations, from slender columns to continuous members in combined bending and compression.

The relationship between structural works and special foundations relies largely on the Load Transfer Document (LTD), which, beyond a simple listing, can play a truly structuring role in the project design and in defining the interface between trades.

When advantageously supplemented with information such as execution tolerance management and the stiffness to consider at the top of each pile, the LTD becomes a key element — relayed by the technical specifications (STS) — to clarify the boundary between trades and secure the design.

This article provides specific insight into these sometimes‑confusing geometric, mechanical, and contractual aspects, and shows the value of documenting them early on.