A time domain boundary element method for poroelasticity

The development of a general boundary element method (BEM) for two‐ and three‐dimensional quasistatic poroelasticity is discussed in detail. The new formulation, for the complete Biot consolidation theory, operates directly in the time domain and requires only boundary discretization. As a result, the dimensionality of the problem is reduced by one and the method becomes quite attractive for geotechnical analyses, particularly those which involve extensive or infinite domains. The presentation includes the definition of the two key ingredients for the BEM, namely, the fundamental solutions and a reciprocal theorem. Then, once the boundary integral equations are derived, the focus shifts to an overview of the general purpose numerical implementation. This implementation includes higher‐order conforming elements, self‐adaptive integration and multi‐region capability. Finally, several detailed examples are presented to illustrate the accuracy and suitability of this boundary element approach for consolidation analysis.