Analytical reliability assessment of liquefaction potential basedon cone penetration test results

Authors

Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Shiraz University of Technology, Shiraz, Iran

Abstract

Determination of site liquefaction potential and taking deterrent action can prevent a significant damage to structures. In this way, a probabilistic liquefaction assessment can develop potential flexibility and risk management decisions. Based on the advantage of probabilistic assessment, considerable research has been carried out in the past few years on liquefaction potential. In this research,the jointly distributed random variables method is used as an analytical method for probabilistic analysis and reliability assessment of liquefactionpotential based on cone penetration test results.The selected stochastic parameters are corrected CPT tip resistance and stress reduction factor, which are modeled using a truncated normal probability density function and the peak horizontal earthquake acceleration ratio and earthquake magnitude, which are considered to have a truncated exponential probability density function. The depth of water table and fines content are regarded as constant parameters. The results are compared with those of the Monte Carlo simulation. Comparison of the results and parametric analysis indicates very good performance of the proposed approach in assessment of reliability. A sensitivity analysis shows that themoment magnitudeis the most effective parameter in soil liquefaction potential.

Keywords