Soil Liquefaction and Countermeasures

Abstract

The mechanism of soil liquefaction caused by earthquake ground motion and the soil conditions for the occurrence of liquefaction is explained. Liquefaction-induced damages to structures during past earthquakes, such as subsidence and inclination of buildings and bridges, uplift of underground structures, collapse of quaywalls and embankment are introduced. The methods of estimation of liquefaction potential based on topographical and geographical conditions, in-situ soil test, laboratory tests and dynamic response analysis of surface ground are mentioned. Furthermore, two ways for reduction of liquefaction-caused damages of buildings, residential houses and embankment against soil liquefaction are introduced. One is how to prevent the occurrence of soil liquefaction and another is how to protect the structures against soil liquefaction. Finally, the construction methods for restoration of houses and buildings inclined and subsided by liquefaction are explained.