Yield Surface-Based Solution for Evaluating Embedded Chain Behavior

This paper establishes a soil resistance yield surface for chain links embedded in clay using three-dimensional finite element analysis that considers realistic chain geometries and the effect of embedment depth. The derived yield surface and its associated flow rule are used to develop a new analytical solution for evaluating embedded chain behavior. Unlike existing approaches that decouple axial and normal resistances to embedded chains by assuming a constant friction coefficient, the proposed solution captures the interaction between three-dimensional soil resistance components through the yield surface formulation. The new solution is validated against published experimental data and further compared with existing approaches. A calculation example is presented to demonstrate the evolution of chain configuration, and the results show that the mobilized (or equivalent) friction coefficient-the ratio of the axial to the normal resistance-varies significantly due to the depth-dependent interaction of these two components. By accounting for the coupling of soil resistance components, the proposed solution offers a practical yet readily implementable approach for chain geotechnical design and analysis.