Multi-directional loading on shared anchors for offshore renewable energy: Definition and preliminary investigation into soil behaviour and anchor performance

In an array configuration, cost reduction can be achieved by reducing the number of anchor by sharing anchor points with multiple floating WECs. However, the loading condition at the anchor becomes complex, including cyclic, alternate and most importantly multi-directional, a case that is not currently addressed in design practice.
This thesis aims at providing preliminary insights into (i) the characteristics of multi-directional loading on shared anchors, (ii) the performance of pile and suction foundations under multi-directional loading and (iii) the behaviour of silica and calcareous sands, at the element level, under multi-directional shear strain paths.